Robbie Ure expressed genuine excitement that the unconventional journey he has taken through the football world has culminated in a place in Sebastien Pocognoli’s inaugural Scotland squad. The 22‑year‑old forward, who began his development within the Rangers youth system, found his progress stalled by limited senior opportunities and consequently made a bold move to Belgian side Anderlecht in 2023.
After a brief stint in Belgium, Ure ventured north to Sweden, joining IK Sirius where he struck an impressive tally of 31 goals in 50 appearances. His prolific form attracted attention from clubs across the continent during the summer transfer window. In early September, Ure completed a transfer to Spanish LaLiga club Sevilla for an initial fee reported to be around £5.5 million. The swift ascent from the Scottish academy to a top‑flight Spanish outfit has now been rewarded with a senior call‑up to represent Scotland for the first time.
"At Rangers I didn’t believe I could go further and I needed a step before the step, and Anderlecht was able to give me that," Ure told Sky Sports News. "Looking back now, it’s clear that it was the right decision to make." He added that his route is atypical for a Scottish player. "It’s a bit unusual for a Scottish player to take that route.
A lot of people think it’s only happened in the last four weeks, but for me it’s been three years of hard work, moving to different countries and trying to get that opportunity. It’s been quite a long road, but it’s been enjoyable," he said.
Ure also noted that he had hoped the new manager would provide chances. "I did think there would be opportunities with the new gaffer.
I’m happy to be involved in his first camp and hopefully I can show him what I can do," he explained. Pocognoli’s Scotland side represents a significant overhaul, with twelve players from Steve Clarke’s World Cup‑ending squad omitted.
Notably, none of the forwards who have recently transferred to clubs in the United States have been selected, leaving a clear opening for Ure to stake his claim. "We need to bring fresh energy, hard work and try to play the way the new manager wants us to play," he said. "For the strikers, the obvious aim is to score goals, but there’s more than that.
We’re trying to get as much information and time on the pitch as we can to really implement how the new gaffer wants us to play." The Pocognoli era officially kicks off with a training camp in Ljubljana on Saturday, followed by a friendly against Switzerland at Hampden Park three days later. After that, the squad will travel to North Macedonia on 3 October before returning to Glasgow for a second friendly versus Slovenia on 6 October. Scotland’s recent demotion from Nations League A after a playoff loss to Greece means they will compete in the second tier of this year’s competition.
Ure highlighted the tactical philosophy he expects under Pocognoli. "He wants us to play smart football, identify where the spaces are and be close together as well, and a lot more things.
It’s early, and I think as this week and next week go by you’ll probably be able to see a little bit more of what he’s trying to get across," the forward said. The full provisional squad includes a mix of experienced internationals and emerging talents. Goalkeepers named are Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers) and Jon McCracken (Bradford City). The defensive line features Luis Binks (Brøndby), Josh Doig (Sassuolo), Colby Donovan (Celtic), Luke Graham (Stoke City), Jack Hendry (Al Ettifaq), Aaron Hickey (Brentford), Scott McKenna (Dinamo Zagreb), Nathan Patterson (Torino), Andy Robertson (Tottenham) and Stephen Welsh (Swansea City).
In midfield, Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Josh McPake (Hearts), Lennon Miller (Udinese) and Kristie Montgomery (Blackburn Rovers) have been called up. Up front, the attacking options include Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Ben Gannon‑Doak (Bournemouth), Oli McBurnie (Hull City), Robbie Ure (Sevilla) and James Wilson (Hearts).
Ure’s inclusion underscores the growing trend of Scottish players seeking development abroad and returning with valuable experience. His time in Belgium and Sweden exposed him to different playing styles, tactical systems and cultural environments, all of which have contributed to his growth as a versatile forward capable of adapting to varied demands. The move to Sevilla, a club renowned for its technical emphasis and European pedigree, is expected to further refine his skill set and tactical awareness. As Scotland prepares for a busy autumn schedule, the team will face Slovenia on 26 September, Switzerland on 29 September, North Macedonia on 3 October, and a second fixture against Slovenia on 6 October.
The Nations League campaign will continue later in the year with matches against North Macedonia on 13 November and Switzerland on 16 November. Fans are encouraged to follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for the latest updates, video highlights, in‑depth analysis and other football content.
Robbie Ure’s story is a testament to perseverance and the willingness to step outside traditional pathways. By embracing opportunities across Europe, he has not only secured a place at a top Spanish club but also earned the honor of representing his country at senior level. His journey serves as an inspiration for other young Scottish talents who may be contemplating unconventional routes to achieve their professional ambitions.