Pocognoli, who played for West Brom and Brighton, had a successful start to his senior coaching career in 2024-25 when he led Union Saint-Gilloise to their first Belgian title since 1935. He will be joined by Barry Can't Swim and Limmy on his coaching staff. The Scottish FA believes Pocognoli will bring an aggressive, front-foot style of play that will excite supporters, as stated by Craig Mulholland, the SFA's chief football suit. Pocognoli's appointment marks a departure from Scotland's preference for homegrown managers since Berti Vogts left in 2004. The former Belgium international has a win percentage of 42 from his time at Monaco, where he finished seventh in the 2025-26 season, their lowest position since 2019-20. Pocognoli expressed his pride in being appointed as Scotland's new manager, stating that he can use the country's strong foundation to develop players for the future.