Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Fri 3 April 2026 7:15, UK

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Graham Potter has led Sweden to the World Cup against all odds, just over six months since he was sacked in disgrace by West Ham United.

The Englishman spent less than a year in charge of the Irons, winning just six of his 25 games in charge.

After leaving West Ham, Potter was approached by Sweden to take over from Jon Dahl Tomasson, who had failed to win a single World Cup qualifying match before he was dismissed.

The 50-year-old’s arrival did not see an immediate improvement, with the Scandinavians only entering the play-offs due to their performance in Nations League C in 2024-25.

Former West Ham manager Potter got his team up for the two huge matches, however, with Tuesday’s win over Poland marked by incredible scenes in Stockholm.

West Ham must not regret Graham Potter decision

Football Insider exclusively revealed in February that Celtic have considered Potter, but there is little chance that Sweden will let him go now.

After beating Ukraine 3-1 last week, Sweden had just 90 minutes standing between them and the unlikeliest of World Cup qualifications.

Viktor Gyokeres goal to make it 3-2 over Poland in the final minutes on Tuesday confirmed their place, and Strawberry Arena erupted.

Watching videos of Potter, beaming, while pumping his fists towards the Sweden fans, it is hard not to feel some regret about the way his time at West Ham panned out.

That type of passion and energy was exactly what was needed at the London Stadium, but he never seemed to have it for the Irons.

It is important to remember just how dire Potter’s West Ham were. Five losses to open the season, 16 goals conceded in just six games. His position was untenable.

Still, though, Hammers cannot be blamed for feeling a sense of what could have been. Nonetheless, the Englishman appears to have found his calling in Sweden.

What Potter said after magical Sweden scenes

The best moments of Potter’s career have been tied to Sweden. His breakthrough and first trophy came when he was in charge of Ostersund.

He enjoyed great moments with Brighton, too, but it is hard to argue that a strong season matches the emotion of a night like Tuesday’s.

“I’ve been lucky to experience a lot during my career and have had some incredible nights, but this feels more,” he told Fotbollskanalen.

“It’s hard to put into words. I wouldn’t trade this for anything. Whatever people think and feel, I don’t care.”