The Vibe Shift
New Scotland manager Sébastien Pocognoli is ready to unlock a different level for Billy Gilmour. After a rough exit from the World Cup, Pocognoli is making it clear: the Napoli midfielder is central to the team’s future success.
Following a goalless draw against Slovenia in his managerial debut, Pocognoli is pushing for Gilmour to reclaim the fearless, one-touch energy he showed during his Brighton days.
“I just want Billy to enjoy his football with a smile,” Pocognoli said. The coach isn't stressing over the occasional bad pass; he wants Gilmour taking risks on the pitch to show off his elite understanding of the game.
The Club Situation
It’s not just about the national team, though. Pocognoli is dropping a major warning for his squad: if you aren't getting minutes for your club, your spot might be in danger once Euro 2028 qualifiers kick off next year.
While guys like Ben Gannon-Doak should see more rotation thanks to Bournemouth’s Europa League schedule, the manager is worried about the physical toll. “The demands on the effort are massive,” he noted, emphasizing that he needs players who are match-fit by the time March rolls around.
Why it matters
Scotland is in a rebuilding phase after a bruising World Cup, and Pocognoli is establishing a clear culture: play with joy, take tactical risks, and stay match-ready at the club level or get left behind.
