The World Cup is still at the round of 32 stage, yet the managerial carousel is already spinning.
It took just one game before Tunisia fired their manager. And the national team coaches of Scotland, South Korea and Czechia all departed their roles following following disappointing campaigns.
They have now been joined by Ronald Koeman who resigned after the Netherlands were beaten on penalties by Morocco.
Nor are they likely to be the last casualties. There is huge pressure on Julian Nagelsmann following Germany’s own loss on penalties to Paraguay.
What has happened has just illustrated the unforgiving nature of international football.
Unlike club football, where a poor run can be corrected over months, the World Cup offers no second chances. A handful of matches can define a coach’s entire legacy.
The pressure is particularly intense because expectations have risen across international football. Supporters no longer judge success simply by qualifying for a World Cup. Many nations now expect progression to the knockout rounds—and for traditional powers, reaching the latter stages is viewed as the minimum requirement.
Modern football has also made patience a scarce commodity. Social media amplifies criticism within minutes of a defeat, television pundits dissect every tactical decision, and national federations often feel compelled to demonstrate accountability after an underwhelming tournament.
Timing also plays a significant role. The end of a World Cup naturally coincides with contract reviews, making it the easiest point for federations to make a change. Even coaches who have enjoyed successful qualification campaigns often find that one disappointing tournament outweighs years of steady work.
This year’s competition has produced several unexpected results, placing even more managers under the microscope. When favourites are eliminated earlier than expected, questions inevitably follow—not only about the players, but about the coach’s tactics, selections and ability to prepare the squad for football’s biggest stage.
In international football, the final whistle does not signal the end of a campaign. For some coaches, it also costs them their job.
