Scotland and Senegal appoint new national football managers

Following disappointing performances at the 2026 World Cup, several national football teams have appointed new head coaches.

Scotland has officially named Sebastien Pocognoli as its new manager, replacing Steve Clark. The 39-year-old Belgian specialist, who previously led Union Saint-Gilloise to a Belgian league title and managed Monaco, has signed a two-year contract. His primary objective is to secure qualification for Euro 2028.

Senegal has appointed former Arsenal captain and French international Patrick Vieira as its new head coach. Vieira, who was born in Dakar, succeeds Pape Thiaw following a period of internal unrest and a premature exit from the 2026 World Cup. The Senegalese Football Federation stated the appointment aims to strengthen the technical team, with Vieira expected to begin his duties during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.