Scotland’s search for a new national team manager appears to be nearing its conclusion. Sébastien Pocognoli, a 39-year-old Belgian coach, has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge of the Scottish national team.
The Scottish Football Association, led by Chief Executive Ian Maxwell, is reportedly expected to confirm the appointment as early as the week of August 17, 2026. If finalized, Pocognoli would become the second overseas coach in modern Scottish football history, following Berti Vogts, whose tenure ran from 2002 to 2004.
From left-back to league champion
Pocognoli’s playing career saw the former left-back earn 13 senior caps for Belgium, spending time at clubs including Genk, AZ Alkmaar, Standard Liège, Hannover 96, West Bromwich Albion, and Brighton & Hove Albion before transitioning into coaching.
He began his coaching career in youth positions at Union SG, Genk, and the Belgium U18 team before his breakthrough as a senior manager at Union SG in July 2024. In his first season, Pocognoli guided Union Saint-Gilloise to their first Belgian Pro League title in 90 years, earning him the Belgian Coach of the Year award.
