Scotland appoints Belgian Pocognoli to take the reins as national team boss

Sebastien Pocognoli, a former coach of Monaco, has been appointed as the new manager of Scotland's national team, taking over from Steve Clarke who stepped down after the World Cup.

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The Scottish Football Association announced that the 39-year-old Belgian has signed a two-year contract, which will see him lead the team in the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign.

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Pocognoli's coaching experience includes stints as head coach of Union Saint-Gilloise and Monaco, and he will now replace Steve Clarke, who resigned as Scotland's boss following the team's group-stage elimination at the World Cup in June.

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During his first season as a head coach, Pocognoli led Union to the 2024/25 Belgian title, showcasing his coaching abilities, and as a former Belgium international, he brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

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Pocognoli expressed his excitement about the appointment, describing it as an "honour", and stated that he was drawn to the opportunity as soon as he heard about the interest in him.

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He also acknowledged the passion of Scotland's supporters, which he witnessed firsthand during the World Cup in the USA and previously as a player for Belgium in 2013.

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Pocognoli vowed to work tirelessly with his coaching staff to build on the success achieved by his predecessor and give the supporters a team to be proud of.