New Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli has called on the Tartan Army to support him and embrace the changes he plans to implement, emphasizing a strategic evolution rather than a radical revolution.
Pocognoli, 39, was formally unveiled on a two-year contract, succeeding Steve Clarke who departed after the summer's World Cup. He becomes Scotland's first foreign manager in over two decades.
"I will be one of you and try to achieve the best I can," Pocognoli stated, addressing potential concerns about his foreign status. "It is a trap to want to change too much. It is impossible to change too much."
He expressed initial apprehension about his reception but found reassurance in discussions with Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell and chief football officer Craig Mulholland, who led the recruitment process. Pocognoli believes the nation is ready for a shift, particularly in playing style, and anticipates his passion for attacking football will resonate with fans.
"I had some questions because I never go through a challenge without ticking all the boxes, if I have a question-mark," Pocognoli said. "For me, one of the question-marks was the fact I am a Belgian coach. Will the country embrace this?"
He believes the team has a strong foundation built by his predecessor, highlighting the experience and title-winning players within the squad. Pocognoli plans to leverage this existing strength while introducing new players and developing young talent to find the right balance for future success.
Dismissing concerns about his age and relative inexperience in international management, Pocognoli drew parallels to his success at Union Saint-Gilloise, where he was also a young, unexpected appointee. "Yes, I am a young international coach, but I am very excited and full of energy," he said. "I will try to fix what I can fix and hope I can make a difference."
His tenure will begin with matches against Slovenia and Switzerland in the upcoming Nations League. Pocognoli also confirmed his intention to include at least one Scottish coach on his backroom staff.
He has already had a positive conversation with Scotland captain Andy Robertson. "We had a very informal conversation. It was very positive. Andy is a very passionate captain who is proud to represent his country," Pocognoli remarked.
Like his previous coaching roles, Pocognoli intends to integrate with the local football culture. "To come here and just do my thing on my own wouldn't work," he stated. "You have to embrace the culture and I will do the same here."
