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Sebastien Pocognoli, the former head coach of Monaco, has emerged as the leading candidate for the Scottish FA’s managerial vacancy following Steve Clarke’s departure. At 39 years old, the Belgian coach parted ways with Monaco at the conclusion of last season. Prior to his stint in France, Pocognoli led Union Saint-Gilloise to a historic league title in the 2024-25 season, their first in 90 years.
The Scottish FA’s chief executive Ian Maxwell, alongside Craig Mulholland, the new chief football officer appointed in May, has reportedly held discussions with several contenders, with Pocognoli standing out among them. The association is expected to make an announcement soon, especially with the Scottish squad gearing up for the Nations League, starting with a match in Slovenia on 26 September as part of a four-game sequence.
Pocognoli is no stranger to British football, having played in England for West Bromwich Albion and Brighton & Hove Albion during his professional playing career. He also represented Belgium internationally, earning 13 caps. Should he take the helm, Pocognoli would become only the second non-Scottish manager of the Scotland men’s national team, following in the footsteps of German coach Berti Vogts. Meanwhile, Clarke, who had renewed his contract in May for a further four years, resigned after Scotland’s exit in the World Cup group stage, ending seven years in charge. Steven Naismith, one of Clarke’s assistant coaches, has expressed his intention to remain involved with the national team under the new leadership.
Pocognoli’s recent departure from Monaco came after a single Ligue 1 season where the team finished seventh. He was initially brought to Monaco in October, following his success with Union Saint-Gilloise—a club known for its progressive approach and linked, like the Scottish club Hearts, to the Jamestown ownership group. Before moving into management, Pocognoli enjoyed a lengthy 17-year playing career as a left-back across top European leagues in England, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. He transitioned into coaching by working with youth players at USG and contributing to the Belgian national youth setups.
In 2024, Pocognoli was promoted to manage Union Saint-Gilloise’s senior team, quickly capturing the Belgian Super Cup and leading the club to its historic league triumph. His bold and attacking style of play soon caught the attention of Monaco, who recruited him based on his tactical approach, favoring an aggressive 3-4-1-2 formation. Pocognoli has described his style as “a dominant one, with and without the ball. High pressing, counter-pressing, but also real mastery in possession.” He also emphasized the importance of player wellbeing, saying, “For me, players are artists, and for an artist to put on a good show, they must be comfortable mentally and physically.
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