Sebastien Pocognoli has been officially appointed as Scotland’s new head coach, putting pen to paper on a two-year contract running through to the end of Euro 2028.

The Belgian becomes only the second foreign manager to take the helm of the Scottish national side, following German tactician Berti Vogts. The appointment comes in the wake of Steve Clarke stepping down following Scotland's group-stage exit at the 2026 World Cup, where the Tartan Army won one match and lost two.

Pocognoli most recently managed Ligue 1 outfit Monaco, where he departed after winning 16 of his 38 matches in charge and recording a seventh-place league finish. Despite that challenging stint, he is eager to embrace the opportunity to guide Scotland towards a home European Championship campaign in 2028.

‘A Project to Develop the Future’

Speaking after his appointment was confirmed, Pocognoli highlighted both the tactical challenge and the cultural connection that drew him to the post.

“I’m very proud to be here. It’s a very strong challenge, with a project to develop the future of Scottish football,” Pocognoli said.

“There are the metrics, but the human aspect was also very important. I never go to a challenge where I can’t feel the connection. Scotland is a passionate country and I think also, regarding the strong foundation that Steve Clarke and his staff did, that I can use this heritage to put the next accent in the style of play, while also developing players for the future. That’s why I’m here.”

First Fixtures on the Horizon

Pocognoli’s tenure will begin in earnest during the upcoming Nations League window. His first match will be an away clash against Slovenia on September 26, followed three days later by his first home game in front of the Tartan Army against Switzerland.