Former Monaco boss Sebastien Pocognoli has signed a two-year deal to succeed Steve Clarke as the new head coach of Scotland.

Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell and chief football officer Craig Mulholland had been leading the recruitment process after Clarke ended his seven-year tenure after Scotland failed to make progress from the initial stages of the World Cup.

The 39-year-old Belgian left Monaco at the end of last season, while in 2024-45 he led Union Saint-Gilloise to the Belgian league title, its first for 90 years.

“When I first heard of the interest, I was immediately excited about the opportunity,” he said. “Scotland’s supporters are famous for their passion – most recently at the World Cup in the USA – and I have experienced it myself as a player for Belgium when we played in 2013.

“Along with my coaching staff, I will do everything I can to give them a team to be proud of and build on the success that has been achieved already by my predecessor.

“Since negotiations began, I have been doing a lot of research, asking a lot of questions and looking at areas that we can build on.”

“We are delighted to have Sébastien on board,” said Maxwell. “He was the standout candidate from a thorough process: a very impressive individual, with a real desire to take on the role and a clear vision for how he wants to go about it.

Mulholland added: “Sébastien’s appointment is an exciting moment for Scottish football. He is one of Europe’s brightest and most sought-after coaches.

“He will bring an aggressive, front-foot style of play that will excite supporters. He will now build on the outstanding work and excellent foundations left by Steve Clarke and his staff.

“While our extensive search was informed by data and insight – and Sébastien’s metrics matched what we believe necessary to enhance and evolve from a position of strength – it’s as important to us that his personality and character will allow him to connect with a fantastic group of players.

“I am delighted we have secured a talent like Sébastien and I look forward to this exciting journey ahead – starting next month.”

Pocognoli’s playing career, included spells with West Bromwich Albion and Brighton & Hove Albion, and he earned 13 caps for Belgium.

He becomes the second foreign coach of the Scotland men’s team after German Berti Vogts.