Scotland's faltering start under new head coach Pocognoli has come under fresh scrutiny following a disappointing home defeat to Slovenia at Hampden Park, a result that leaves second place in the Nations League group looking increasingly out of reach.
Despite taking an early lead, Scotland ultimately fell to a loss that pundits agreed was no less than their performance deserved. Analysis of the match pointed to a disjointed pressing structure that never functioned as a cohesive unit, allowing Slovenia to repeatedly exploit the space in behind with simple balls over the top. A high defensive line proved especially vulnerable, with centre-backs Stephen Welsh, Jack Hendry and Binks all finding themselves isolated in one-on-one situations they struggled to cope with.
Adding to the sense of confusion on the pitch, Pocognoli made three separate formation changes during the course of the match, a tactical indecision that reportedly left senior players uncertain of their roles. At one stage, Andy Robertson was seen appealing to the touchline for instructions, a moment that summed up the lack of clarity in Scotland's approach. There was also suggestion that Slovenia had done their homework, having closely studied Scotland's recent matches to identify and target weaknesses.
Four matches into his tenure, questions are now being asked about how well-defined Pocognoli's long-term project actually is, and whether his preferred back-three system suits the players currently available to him. Some have floated a return to a 4-2-3-1 formation as a potential solution, while others have noted, with a degree of irony, that former manager Steve Clarke's methods are starting to look more favorable in hindsight given Scotland's current struggles.
Selection decisions have also come under the microscope. There is debate over whether Kieran Bowie, who scored against North Macedonia, should have been given a starting role against Slovenia rather than being left out. Ollie McBurnie's prolonged scoring drought in front of goal has similarly drawn criticism, with many wondering how much longer his lack of form in that area can be tolerated.
There is also discussion around how best to maximize the potential of Ben Gannon-Doak, whose game time has been limited, as he is not currently a regular starter at Bournemouth. Goalkeeper Angus Gunn has faced his share of blame too, though some have argued the issues causing Scotland problems originate much further up the pitch, well before the ball ever reaches him. On a more positive note, there is cautious optimism about the depth Scotland may be able to call upon in the future, with players like Josh McPake and James Wilson, along with the broader under-21 squad, seen as potential assets going forward.
Away from the senior national team, there was also news on the domestic front, with Martin O'Neill confirming his intention to remain in charge at Celtic. Attention will now turn to whether he can navigate a demanding run of fixtures against Motherwell, Benfica, Hearts and Celta Vigo while keeping doubters at bay.
For Pocognoli, the pressure is mounting to find clarity and consistency quickly, with Scotland's Nations League campaign now at a critical juncture and the margin for further missteps growing increasingly thin.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport (Radio Scotland podcast).