The Scottish Football Association has appointed the Belgian Sébastien Pocognoli as the successor to Steve Clarke as manager. The 39-year-old, who was sacked by Monaco in June, will become the country’s first non-Scottish manager since Berti Vogts, who was in charge from 2002 to 2004.
Clarke’s abrupt departure came after Scotland were knocked out of the World Cup at the group stage. He had signed a four-year contract extension immediately before the tournament. It quickly became clear the SFA would turn towards a foreign manager with the Danes Jon Dahl Tomasson and Kasper Hjulmand being linked with the position.
Pocognoli, a left-back who played for Brighton and West Brom, will probably be welcomed by Scotland fans seeking a fresh approach. Clarke was in position for a generally successful seven years, including appearances at three major tournaments, but was often criticised for a pragmatic style.
Craig Mulholland, the SFA’s chief football officer, said Pocognoli “will bring an aggressive, front-foot style of play that will excite supporters”.
After a period in youth coaching, Pocognoli enjoyed a successful time in charge of Union Saint-Gilloise in his homeland. Under Pocognoli, Union won their first title in 90 years in 2025. A move to Monaco followed, but Pocognoli lasted eight months and 38 games in France. The former Everton and Belgum winger Kevin Mirallas is expected to join him in the dugout.
Pocognoli said: “When I first heard of the interest, I was immediately excited about the opportunity. Scotland’s supporters are famous for their passion – most recently at the World Cup in the USA - and I have experienced it myself as a player for Belgium when we played in 2013.
“Along with my coaching staff, I will do everything I can to give them a team to be proud of and build on the success that has been achieved already by my predecessor.”
Scotland begin their Nations League campaign with a trip to Slovenia on 26 September. Pocognoli’s first home game in charge will be Switzerland’s visit to Glasgow three days later.
