New Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli says the country’s deep passion for football played a major role in his decision to accept the position.
The 39-year-old was officially named as Steve Clarke’s replacement on Sunday before meeting the media for the first time on Monday.
Clarke’s seven-year spell in charge came to an end earlier this summer after Scotland were eliminated in the World Cup group stage. They defeated Haiti but subsequently lost to Morocco and Brazil.
Pocognoli, a former Belgium international defender, departed Monaco at the conclusion of last season. Before that, he guided Union Saint-Gilloise to their first domestic league championship in 90 years during the 2024-25 campaign.
He is only the second overseas coach to take charge of Scotland’s men’s side, following Germany’s Berti Vogts. Pocognoli is confident he can develop the solid platform established during Clarke’s tenure.
Speaking alongside Scottish FA officials Ian Maxwell and Craig Mulholland at his unveiling, Pocognoli said he was extremely proud to take on the role.
He described the position as an exciting and demanding opportunity that includes a long-term plan for Scottish football. Although performance data influenced his decision, he stressed that the personal connection was equally significant and that he would not accept a role unless he genuinely felt that bond.
Pocognoli added that Scotland’s enthusiasm for the game, combined with the firm foundations created by Clarke and his staff, gives him an opportunity to refine the team’s playing identity while nurturing players for the years ahead.
He said those factors ultimately convinced him to take the job.
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