Scottish FA selects new head coach Sebastian Pocognoli using AI technology

The Scottish FA appointed Sebastian Pocognoli as the new head coach for Scotland on August 17, 2026, employing AI to aid in the selection process. Following Steve Clarke's departure after seven years, the SFA utilized the services of the analytics firm Twenty First Group. Their AI identified 40 candidates, leading to Pocognoli's selection through a rigorous analytics-driven approach. The SFA's strategy involved comparing data from ten countries to determine the qualities desirable in a head coach. The analytics highlighted misconceptions about the characteristics of successful international coaches, reshaping the SFA's hiring criteria.

• 9:45 PMYahoo Sports — How Scottish FA used AI in selecting new Scotland boss Pocognoli