Andy Robertson joins Tottenham and Steve Clarke steps
Date: Wednesday, 1st Jul 2026Andy Robertson joins Tottenham as Steve Clarke steps down following Scotland’s World Cup Exit
Andy Robertson’s move to Tottenham Hotspur was confirmed on June 5, just before Scotland’s World Cup opener against Haiti. This ends his successful nine-year run at Liverpool, where he won every major trophy. Now 32, Robertson starts a new chapter under Roberto De Zerbi in north London.
The timing of the announcement wasn’t ideal. Robertson became the first Tottenham player to play at the World Cup when he captained Scotland against Haiti. He later admitted the busy week was mentally exhausting. Still, he played well, delivering five crosses, making key defensive plays, and giving Scotland the width they needed in a close match decided by one goal.
Scotland focuses on rebuilding, while the current England to win the World Cup odds show that many believe they could win it. Robertson will watch those developments with interest, knowing that Scotland`s path to similar success requires patience.
Robertson`s World Cup Performances
Across three group matches, Robertson proved why he’s still Scotland’s key player. Against Haiti, he was always available on the left, worked well with McGinn, and stayed solid in defence when Haiti pressed for an equaliser. The BBC, The Scotsman, and talkSPORT all rated him as one of Scotland’s top performers, praising his passing and his drive to move the ball forward under pressure. His crosses were especially dangerous, and on another night, his efforts might have led to more goals.
The games against Morocco and Brazil were tougher. Against Morocco, Robertson had to watch out for Louicius Deedson and later Achraf Hakimi, which limited his chances to attack. Brazil’s strength kept Scotland on the back foot for much of the match, so Robertson had to defend more than he wanted. Still, he didn’t shy away. As captain, he worked hard all over the pitch, even when the match seemed lost against Ancelotti’s strong team. He stayed professional, even as the score got worse.
What Tottenham Means for His Scotland Career
Moving to Tottenham is a calculated risk for Robertson. He had called Liverpool home since 2017 and could count on regular Champions League football there. Tottenham brings a new kind of challenge. De Zerbi wanted him for his experience, leadership, and skill, and Spurs hope he can help steady a team that has struggled with consistency lately. For Robertson, staying in the Premier League with an ambitious club was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. Johan Lange, Spurs’ sporting director, called him one of the best left backs in Premier League history.
For Scotland, the main concern is how much Robertson will play. If he gets regular minutes at a high level, it should help his international form. But if Tottenham keeps struggling, as they did last season, his club situation could become a distraction. Clarke showed his trust by starting Robertson in all three World Cup games before stepping down after the tournament.
The Road Ahead for Scotland`s Captain
With Clarke leaving and a new manager coming in, Robertson is entering another period of change. He has 93 caps now and will probably reach 100 during the Nations League. His experience will be important for a team that mixes veterans like McTominay and McGinn with young players like Gannon-Doak and Curtis. The autumn games against Slovenia, Switzerland, and North Macedonia will be key for what happens next. A good start is needed to rebuild confidence after the World Cup exit.
Euro 2028 is eagerly awaited. Scotland will co-host the tournament, so they qualify automatically and will play at Hampden Park. Robertson will be 34 then, likely in the latter stages of his international career. If he maintains his form at Tottenham, he could lead Scotland out at their home stadium in a major tournament. That would be a fitting way to conclude a remarkable international career that still looks strong.
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