Steve McClaren, the former England manager, has been named the head coach of Jamaica on a two-year contract.
Leaving his position as an assistant at Manchester United, McClaren returned to Old Trafford in 2022, joining Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff after previously collaborating with him during their time at FC Twente.
At 63, McClaren’s most recent managerial position was with QPR five years ago. He has also had stints as manager at Middlesbrough, Derby County (twice), and Newcastle.
Jamaica has been without a manager since Heimir Hallgrímsson departed this month after a disappointing Copa América performance. The Icelandic coach has since taken on the role of manager for the Republic of Ireland.
The Jamaica Football Federation evaluated candidates over recent weeks, ultimately agreeing on a two-year contract with McClaren, which will lead into the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Michael Ricketts, president of the Jamaican federation, remarked: “We are absolutely thrilled to announce Mr. McClaren’s appointment as the head coach of the Reggae Boyz.”
“We are confident we’ve made the right choice and are eager to see him guide our nation towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
McClaren expressed, “I am immensely proud and excited to assume the role of head coach for Jamaica’s men’s national team. I had no hesitations in accepting this position, which I believe is perfectly aligned with my career at this time.
“Before returning to Manchester United for a second stint, I served as a technical advisor at FIFA, working on their global eco-analysis project. Jamaica was one of the teams I collaborated with, and I quickly recognized the potential within the country.”
