Harry Redknapp, widely regarded in English football circles and a former manager of West Ham and Tottenham, had an unexpected international managerial stint with Jordan in 2016, four years after narrowly missing out on the England national team job. Though he was a favorite among fans and bookmakers for the England role in 2012, the position ultimately went to Roy Hodgson. However, in March 2016, Redknapp received a surprise call from Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, president of the Jordan Football Association, inviting him to take charge of the Jordan national team for two World Cup qualifying matches.
Redknapp accepted the brief assignment as Jordan sought qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history. The experience proved challenging, in part due to the language barrier; none of the Jordanian players spoke English, complicating communication. Redknapp acknowledged this difficulty but also noted it may have inadvertently helped focus the team. He said he aimed to make incremental improvements rather than expecting an immediate transformation toward a top-tier playing style.
Prince Ali expressed high hopes upon hiring Redknapp, describing him as a "world-class manager" proven by his career achievements, including leading Portsmouth to FA Cup victory in 2008. However, Redknapp cautioned against unrealistic expectations, recognizing the limitations inherent in such a short tenure and the developmental stage of the Jordanian national team.
During his brief spell, Redknapp managed two matches. The first saw Jordan deliver a commanding 8-0 win over Bangladesh, a result that boosted morale and led Redknapp to humorously remark to the opposing coach that he might be better suited to cricket. The second game, however, was a stark reminder of the gulf in quality, as Jordan suffered a 5-1 defeat in Sydney against Australia, then leaders of their qualifying group under manager Ange Postecoglou.
Despite his short stay, Redknapp expressed a strong affinity for Jordan and its people, offering to support the team without pay if needed. He ultimately declined a full-time role, citing personal reasons, including his commitment to his home in Sandbanks with his wife, Sandra. He suggested a preference for seeing a local coach lead the team, praising current efforts.
Redknapp was not the first English manager to work with Jordan; Chelsea legend Ray Wilkins held a similar role two years earlier. The task of guiding Jordan to their first World Cup appearance was eventually achieved under the leadership of Moroccan coach Jamal Sellami.
With Jordan set to begin their campaign in Group J of the upcoming tournament against Austria, alongside defending champions Argentina and Algeria, Redknapp voiced his hope that the team could exceed expectations. Reflecting on his experience, he described his time with Jordan as unforgettable and treasured, emphasizing the special connection he formed with the players and officials during his tenure.