November 26 – Iceland coach Age Hareide (pictured) has called time on his managerial career, the Football Association of Iceland (KSI) said on Monday.
Last year, the Norwegian became the manager of Iceland, but he has decided to step down ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and plans to retire. He almost took the team to Euro 2024 but Ukraine proved too strong in the playoffs.
In March, Iceland will also feature in the Nations League playoffs before embarking on the qualification campaign for the 48-team World Cup in 2026.
“I have enjoyed my time with the Icelandic national team, but I believe now is the right time to step down,” said Hareide. “There are exciting times ahead for the team and many young players are growing as leaders of the team. I wish the team and Icelandic football all the best in the future.”
Having started his managerial career in 1985, he had spells in charge of Denmark and Norway, taking the Danish to the 2018 World Cup in Russia where they lost in the second round against eventual runners-up Croatia. As a player, he was a defender for English clubs Norwich City and Manchester City among others.
“During his time with the team, many players have taken big steps, players who have a future with the national team,” said Iceland FA (KSI) chairman Thorvaldur Örlygsson. “We will work hard in the coming weeks and months to find a new coach.”
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