The Swedish Football Association has confirmed the appointment of Graham Potter as the new head coach of the national team, handing the Englishman a short-term deal as they look to revive their faltering 2026 World Cup qualification hopes.
Potter, 50, steps into the role following the sacking of Jon Dahl Tomasson, whose side’s 1–0 defeat to Kosovo ended any realistic chance of automatic qualification from Group B.
Graham Potter lands new job after West Ham sack
The federation moved swiftly to secure Potter’s signature, banking on his deep connection with Swedish football and reputation for tactical innovation, as noted by Tribuna.
For many in Sweden, Potter’s appointment feels like the return of a long-lost friend. The former Östersund FK manager is still fondly remembered for transforming the small northern club into a top-flight force — guiding them to three promotions in four years and a historic Swedish Cup triumph in 2017.
His impact in Sweden went beyond trophies; he introduced a bold, possession-based philosophy rarely seen in Scandinavian football at the time.
That legacy has made him one of the most respected foreign coaches in Swedish football history — and fans are now hopeful he can replicate that magic on the international stage.
Potter breaks his silence after landing Sweden job
Potter’s first assignment is daunting. Sweden face crucial upcoming qualifiers — an away trip to Switzerland followed by a home clash with Slovenia.
While a top-two finish in Group B looks unlikely, Sweden still have a lifeline through the 2024–25 Nations League play-offs.
Upon his unveiling, Potter expressed both gratitude and determination to steer the team back on course.
“I am very humble about the assignment, but also inspired,” he said, as cited by Mail Sport. Sweden has fantastic players who deliver in the best leagues every week. My job will be to create the conditions so that we as a team deliver at the highest level to take Sweden to the World Cup next summer.”
Potter’s appointment comes just weeks after his dismissal from West Ham United, following a difficult start to the Premier League season.
Despite that setback, his reputation remains strong thanks to his impressive body of work — from his innovative spell at Brighton & Hove Albion to his developmental focus at Swansea City and his brief tenure at Chelsea.
Now, back in familiar territory, Potter faces a challenge that plays to his strengths: rebuilding, revitalising, and inspiring belief.