Scotland set to appoint 39-year-old Sébastien Pocognoli as Steve Clarke’s successor

The Scottish Football Association hopes to name Belgian Sébastien Pocognoli, 39, as Steve Clarke’s successor early next week, and he would be the first non-Scottish manager since Berti Vogts (2002-04).

Clarke’s abrupt departure followed Scotland’s exit from the World Cup at the group stage; he had signed a four-year contract extension immediately before the tournament. Clarke had been in charge for seven years and was often criticised for a pragmatic style.

It quickly became clear the SFA would turn towards a foreign manager, with Jon Dahl Tomasson and Kasper Hjulmand among those linked with the position.

Pocognoli will probably be welcomed by Scotland fans in respect of a fresh approach.

After a period in youth coaching, Pocognoli enjoyed a successful time in charge of Union Saint-Gilloise in his homeland; under his management Union won their first title in 90 years in 2025. A move to Monaco followed, but Pocognoli lasted eight months and 38 games in France and was sacked in June.

Scotland begin their Nations League campaign with the visit to Slovenia on 26 September, and Pocognoli’s first home game in charge will be Switzerland’s visit to Glasgow three days later.