After the shocking dismissal of Jon Dahl Tomasson as Sweden’s head coach, Graham Potter has emerged as a serious contender to take over the national team and reports suggest the English manager is open to the opportunity.
Potter, who has been out of management since leaving Chelsea in 2023, has reportedly expressed interest in returning to coaching, but only for a project that “feels right.” Sources close to the former Brighton boss say he is intrigued by the idea of managing a national side, especially one with Sweden’s footballing history and potential.
According to Swedish outlet Aftonbladet, officials from the Swedish Football Association (SvFF) have already made initial contact with Potter’s representatives. While formal talks haven’t started, the FA is said to be keen on securing a manager with international experience and a reputation for developing young talent — both of which fit Potter’s profile perfectly.
“Potter’s calm approach, tactical intelligence, and player development record are exactly what Sweden needs right now,” said one Swedish FA source. “He’s on our shortlist, and discussions could move quickly.”
The timing of this development follows Sweden’s poor start in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where the team managed only one win in four matches. Tomasson’s departure has left the national setup in need of fresh leadership before crucial games against Norway and Poland.
Potter, 50, is familiar with Scandinavian football, having managed Östersunds FK in Sweden between 2011 and 2018, where he led the club from the fourth tier to the Europa League a historic achievement that made him one of Europe’s most respected emerging managers.
In a recent interview, Potter reflected fondly on his time in Sweden:
“Sweden was where my journey really began. The people, the culture, and the football gave me something unique. It’s a place that feels close to my heart.”
If appointed, Potter would become the first Englishman to coach Sweden in over 40 years, following in the footsteps of legends like Roy Hodgson, who also built his reputation in the Scandinavian leagues.
The Swedish FA is expected to make an announcement before the next international window, with Henrik Larsson and Anders Svensson also mentioned as potential interim options.
For Potter, the move could be a strategic return one that reconnects him with the environment where he first made his managerial mark, and gives Sweden a tactically progressive coach capable of revitalizing their World Cup hopes.
Quote Highlight:
“Sweden was where my journey really began… It’s a place that feels close to my heart.” Graham Potter
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