Jamaica has appointed Steve McClaren as their new head coach, following the departure of Heimir Hallgrímsson after a disappointing Copa América campaign. Hallgrímsson has since been named the new Ireland manager after an eight-month search by the FAI.
Steve McClaren, the former England manager, has signed a two-year contract with the Jamaica Football Federation. McClaren, who left his assistant role at Manchester United, joined Erik ten Hag’s backroom team in 2022 after previously working with him at FC Twente. His last managerial position was at QPR five years ago, and he has also managed Middlesbrough, Derby County (twice), and Newcastle.
The Jamaican national team had been without a manager since Hallgrímsson's exit. The Jamaica Football Federation had been evaluating candidates and ultimately decided on McClaren, aiming for success in the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Michael Ricketts, president of the Jamaican federation, expressed his enthusiasm about the new appointment: “We are truly elated to announce the appointment of Mr. McClaren as head coach of the Reggae Boyz. We are confident we made the right decision and look forward to him guiding our nation towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
McClaren also shared his excitement: “I am extremely proud and excited to take up the position of head coach for the Jamaica men’s national team. I had no hesitation in accepting a position that is ideally suited to me at this stage of my career. Prior to returning to Manchester United for a second spell, I spent time at FIFA as a technical adviser on their global eco analysis project. Jamaica was one of the teams I worked with, and I quickly came to realize the potential the country possessed.”
As McClaren steps into his new role, the Jamaican national team is optimistic about their journey to the 2026 World Cup under his leadership.
