ESPN: Porter is willing to coach the Swedish team, but the Swedish Football Association has not yet sent an invitation to him
ESPN reported that Graham Porter expressed his interest in serving as the head coach of the Swedish national team.
After the Swedish team lost 0-1 at home to Kosovo, the team almost lost hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup through the group stage. Subsequently, former head coach Thomason was fired. Porter was sacked by West Ham United last month after just seven months at Chelsea.
In an interview with Swedish media Fotbollskanalen on Tuesday, Porter revealed that if the Swedish Football Association extended an invitation to him, he would consider taking over the position: "I'm in Sweden right now, staying in my house. I've just left the Premier League and I'm currently out of work and I'm open to anything as long as I feel I can help. The job of head coach of the Swedish national team is great. I have a lot of affection for Sweden. I'm passionate about it. Love this country and Swedish football. I'm very grateful for everything Swedish football has given me. So this is obviously a great opportunity for me."
Potter spent seven years coaching the team from the Swedish fourth tier to the Europa League. He said he has not yet received an invitation from the Swedish Football Association.
"I have gained a lot of experience so far and am very grateful for the career I have had. But I am only 50 years old and have a lot to contribute. I am not looking for a job at a specific level, but I hope to find a place where I can help and make a difference. I also hope that we (all relevant people) can be on the same page. That is my standard."
Thomasson has been the head coach of the Swedish team since February 2024, becoming the first non-Swedish coach. However, in four World Cup qualifiers, the team only recorded one draw and three losses, ultimately leading to his dismissal.
The Swedish team's hope of qualifying for the World Cup may be pinned on the play-offs. They are expected to qualify for the play-offs through their performance in the UEFA Nations League. Porter spent more than seven years in charge at Ostersund, followed by successful spells at Swansea and Brighton, making him highly anticipated when he takes over as Chelsea manager in 2022.