Jon Dahl Tomasson‘s Future with Sweden Hangs in the Balance

Danish newspaper BT reports that Sports Manager Lasse Vøge believes the question isn’t if Jon Dahl Tomasson will be fired as the Swedish national team manager, but when.

Following Wednesday’s national team selection proclamation and the subsequent press conference, this outcome seems increasingly likely. JDT appeared angry, disappointed, and annoyed, displaying a controlled coldness that was, admittedly, admirable.

A majority of Swedish football journalists appear to be critical, and even Robin Olsen – a long-time favorite among the press (though less so with supporters) – received criticism for his actions and late-game errors.

The current situation isn’t solely about Tomasson’s leadership or even his footballing approach. The media seems intent on his departure, regardless of future results or qualification for the World Cup. during the press conference, one journalist ironically described JDT’s football as “modern.” He simply doesn’t fit the traditional Swedish model.

The controversy surrounding Robin Olsen has even been given it’s own moniker: “Olsen-Gate,” and will likely continue to haunt Tomasson.

Potential replacements are already being discussed, with names like Nanne Bergstrand and Hasse Backe surfacing. Ultimately, it will likely be a familiar face taking the helm.

Looking at recent disagreements between JDT and players like Elanga or Hugo larsson, the core issue remains the same.

!Robin Olsen, jumps off the national team. photo: Ludvig Thunman/Bildbyrån