Sweden have officially dismissed manager Jon Dahl Tomasson following a disappointing run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, marking the end of the Dane’s 20-month tenure in charge. The decision was confirmed late Sunday evening by the Swedish Football Association (SvFF), citing “unsatisfactory results and lack of progress.”
Tomasson, who previously led Malmö FF and the Danish national setup, was appointed in early 2024 with high expectations. However, Sweden’s campaign has stumbled from the start managing just one win in four matches, including a 2–0 defeat to Iceland and a 1–1 draw with Finland. The results have left Sweden sitting fifth in Group E, far from the automatic qualification spots.
Speaking after the announcement, SvFF sporting director Stefan Pettersson said:
“Jon has worked tirelessly and professionally, but the board feels a change is necessary to revive confidence in the squad. We still believe this group can reach the World Cup, but we need new energy and direction.”
Tomasson himself expressed disappointment but accepted the decision, thanking the players and supporters for their effort and faith:
“It’s a proud football nation with great players. I wish Sweden nothing but success in the future. Sometimes football moves fast, and you must respect that.”
The move makes Tomasson the first foreign manager ever sacked by Sweden, a decision that highlights the pressure facing the national team after missing Euro 2024 qualification.
Several names are already being linked with the vacant position, including Graham Potter, the former Brighton and Chelsea boss, who recently expressed openness to taking a national team job. Former Sweden internationals Anders Svensson and Henrik Larsson are also reportedly being considered for caretaker roles.
With crucial qualifiers against Norway and Poland coming next month, the Swedish FA is expected to appoint a new manager quickly. The priority will be restoring attacking confidence and tightening a defense that has conceded seven goals in four games.
For a nation with rich footballing history from Zlatan Ibrahimović’s era to the World Cup quarter-final run in 2018 — Sweden’s current slump is alarming. The next appointment could define their future in international football for years to come.
Quote Highlight:
“We still believe this group can reach the World Cup, but we need new energy and direction.” Stefan Pettersson, Swedish FA Sporting Director
Leave a comment