New Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli has told Sky Sports that the time for change had arrived, pointing to a “good mix” within his initial squad. The Belgian is convening with his players for the first time this week as they train in La Manga ahead of their Nations League opener against Slovenia.
The Scotland players are training in La Manga ahead of their Nations League opener
Five players received their maiden full Scotland call-ups in Pocognoli’s first squad, with Blackburn Rovers midfielder Kristi Montgomery drafted in after Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean withdrew.
The extended international break, featuring four Nations League matches, provides the new manager additional time with his squad as he aims to make an impact as Steve Clarke’s successor. “We have plenty of experience in the team, alongside some new faces and young talents, and I believe we possess a good mix,” Pocognoli told Sky Sports News.
Kristi Montgomery has been added to the Scotland squad
“We must ensure the balance remains intact and preserve the cohesion and genuine DNA that make the Scotland team strong,” he stated. “The necessary change was required now, as we adhere to timelines, and it concerns the elements we wish to create on the pitch. It also relates to club performance and injuries—when change is needed, it must happen. What was provided in the past is invaluable for the future. We must find the right balance; experienced players will be essential in maintaining standards, and the coaching staff must align on our shared objectives. I want to see a team that is truly united—basic principles, attack together, defend together—that is the Scotland mentality.”
Oli McBurnie is included in the Scotland squad for the first time since 2021
Pocognoli’s tenure officially begins in Ljubljana on Saturday, followed by a home fixture against Switzerland at Hampden Park three days later. The squad then travels to North Macedonia on October 3 before returning to Glasgow for the return meeting with Slovenia on October 6. Scotland were relegated from Nations League A following a playoff defeat to Greece last season and return to the second tier this year. “There are many paths to success,” the 39-year-old added.
“For me, in the Nations League, the goal is to remain competitive and climb as high as possible toward League A. We must also recognize principles on the pitch, identify leaders, give young players opportunities, and demonstrate team cohesion. Additionally, we need to excite the supporters. If we can combine that with results—why we do this job—I would be very pleased.”
Scotland squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers), Jon McCracken (Bradford City)
Defenders: Luis Binks (Brondby), Josh Doig (Sassuolo), Colby Donovan (Celtic), Luke Graham (Stoke City), Jack Hendry (Al-Ettifaq), Aaron Hickey (Brentford), Scott McKenna (Dinamo Zagreb), Nathan Patterson (Torino), Andy Robertson (Tottenham), Stephen Welsh (Swansea City)
Midfielders: Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Josh McPake (Hearts), Lennon Miller (Udinese), Kristie Montgomery (Blackburn Rovers)
Forwards: Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Ben Gannon-Doak (Bournemouth), Oli McBurnie (Hull City), Robbie Ure (Sevilla), James Wilson (Hearts)
Scotland’s Nations League fixtures
Slovenia vs Scotland – September 26, kick-off 2pm
Scotland vs Switzerland – September 29, kick-off 7.45pm
N. Macedonia vs Scotland – October 3, kick-off 7.45pm
Scotland vs Slovenia – October 6, kick-off 7.45pm
Scotland vs N. Macedonia – November 13, kick-off 7.45pm
Switzerland vs Scotland – November 16, kick-off 7.45pm
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