Scottish FA targets Sebastien Pocognoli as next Scotland manager
The Scottish FA has identified Sebastien Pocognoli as its prime candidate to replace Steve Clarke as Scotland manager, with an appointment possibly imminent before the national team's next fixtures in late September. (BBC Sport)
Pocognoli is a 39-year-old Belgian who left his coaching role at Monaco at the end of the 2024/25 season. During his playing days he turned out for West Bromwich Albion and Brighton, and earned 13 caps for Belgium. Now he is in line for the biggest job of his young managerial career.
The vacancy opened when Steve Clarke resigned following Scotland's group-stage exit at the World Cup. Clarke's departure ended a seven-year tenure — a stint that included leading Scotland to Euro 2020 and Euro 2024. His exit came despite having signed a new four-year deal as recently as May. (BBC Sport)
Pocognoli is not the only name in the frame. Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell and chief football officer Craig Mulholland — appointed to his newly created role in May — have spoken to several candidates as part of the recruitment process. But Pocognoli has emerged as the leading option. (BBC Sport)
Time is a factor. Scotland face a Nations League block of four matches — the tournament that pits European national teams against similarly ranked opponents in group stages — starting with a trip to Slovenia on 26 September. Getting a manager in place before that run begins gives the new boss a proper window to work with the squad.
One piece of continuity may already be settled. Steven Naismith, who served as one of Clarke's assistants, has said he expects to remain in the national team set-up under whoever takes charge. (BBC Sport)
For Scotland fans, the appeal of Pocognoli is curiosity as much as anything. He is young, relatively unproven at the top level of management, and brings a fresh perspective from his work in Ligue 1. Whether that translates into results on the pitch is the question that will define this appointment — and it will not take long to find out.
For now, the ball sits with the Scottish FA. An announcement could come within days.
