Sebastien Pocognoli is preparing to lead the Scotland national football team for the first time in an away match against Slovenia in the UEFA Nations League this Saturday. The 39-year-old Belgian coach, who previously managed Monaco, is also learning to sing the Scottish national anthem, "Flower of Scotland," ahead of his debut with the team.

Speaking from the team’s training camp in La Manga, Spain, Pocognoli expressed his intention to embrace the pre-match tradition of singing with the Tartan Army, Scotland’s passionate fanbase. “I will do what I feel is the best — and I think I would like to do it,” he said, noting that he has been memorizing the anthem’s lyrics. “I will try to do the best I can with my French accent.”

Following the Nations League fixture in Slovenia, Scotland will return home to face Switzerland at Hampden Park on Tuesday. Pocognoli said he is eagerly anticipating experiencing the atmosphere at Scotland’s national stadium for the first time. “I am excited for the first game there and to just live it,” he remarked.

Pocognoli’s appointment marks a new chapter for Scotland as they take on a challenging Nations League campaign. His efforts to connect with the team and supporters, including learning the anthem, reflect a commitment to fostering unity and spirit ahead of what could be an important series of fixtures.