From Chelsea to Sweden: Graham Potter Poised to Ignite a World Cup Dream
18 October 2025
From Chelsea to Sweden: Potter's World Cup Quest Nears
English coach Graham Potter, recently dismissed by West Ham United in September after a string of disappointing results, is resurfacing in coaching headlines with a potential Sweden job.
The Telegraph reports that Potter has emerged as a candidate to take charge of the Sweden national team for the remainder of the European qualifying campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, likely in an interim capacity while the federation searches for a longer-term solution.
Sweden’s football federation had just dismissed coach Jon Dal Tomason following a 0-1 home defeat by Kosovo, prompting a reshuffle as the team gears up for the final stretch of qualifiers.
Potter is no stranger to Sweden. Between 2011 and 2018 he led Östersund to three trophies, including league titles in the lower divisions and the Swedish Cup in 2011, 2012 and 2017. He earned the Swedish Coach of the Year award in 2016 and 2017, cementing a fond memory in the country’s football history.
He had been linked to the Sweden role in 2023 but chose to step back from football after leaving Chelsea, turning down the opportunity at the time. In a recent interview he stated he is living in Sweden, settled in his home, and remains open to opportunities where he can make a real impact.
Asked about taking the national team job, Potter replied: “I’m open to everything. I feel I can help, and the Sweden job is a fantastic position.” He also noted that at 50 there is plenty still to offer, emphasizing that the aim is to find a role where he can truly contribute, not just a title.
Sweden’s World Cup history remains a point of pride. The nation has appeared in 12 World Cups, with the 1958 final on home soil marking the peak of their achievements. They have claimed third place in 1950 and 1994, and reached the quarterfinals in 2018 before being eliminated by England. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar ended in a playoff defeat to Poland.
A new-generation core, featuring Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres and Ilanga, is expected to spearhead a revival and push for a return to football’s grand stage under fresh leadership.
All-time World Cup statistics for Sweden include 12 appearances, a best finish as runners-up in 1958, four semi-final appearances, 23 wins, and 80 goals scored. Among the all-time top scorers are Kenneth Anderson and Henrik Larsson, each with five goals, cementing a legacy that Potter could tap into if he returns to the helm.
