Georgios Donis set to replace Hervé Renard as Saudi Arabia national football team coach
Here's what it means for you.
The shift in coaching leadership could influence regional football dynamics and betting markets ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What happened
The Saudi Football Federation is in advanced negotiations with Georgios Donis to replace Hervé Renard as the national team coach.
The Context
- Recent performance issues: Hervé Renard's tenure saw a decline in results, including a semi-final exit in the 2025 Arab Cup and losses in key friendlies.
- Donis's experience: The 56-year-old Greek coach has a strong background in Saudi football, having managed multiple clubs since 2024.
- Upcoming announcement: An official confirmation of Donis's appointment is expected soon, with a transition planned after the Saudi Pro League season.
The Number
— Georgios Donis is set to become the 60th head coach of the Saudi Arabia national football team, highlighting the frequent changes in leadership as the team prepares for the World Cup.
Takeaway
As the Saudi national team gears up for the World Cup, Donis's appointment could reshape their strategy and performance on the global stage.
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مدرب الخليج دونيس.. الأقرب لقيادة الأخضر السعودي في المونديال
The Saudi Football Federation is currently in negotiations with Greek coach Georgios Donis, who is the manager of Al-Khaleej Club, to take over as the head coach of the Saudi national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, replacing French coach Hervé Ren...
Pan-Arab news coverage spanning politics, business, sports, and regional affairs.
"Asharq Al-Awsat reflects a broad Arab editorial perspective with strong attention to regional geopolitics."
— A47 Editor
هيرفي رينارد يرحل... واليوناني دونيس المدرب رقم 60 للمنتخب السعودي
The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has reached a final agreement with Greek coach Georgios Donis, who previously managed Al-Khaleej Club, to take over as the head coach of the Saudi national team, following the departure of Hervé Renard.
Pan-Arab news coverage spanning politics, business, sports, and regional affairs.
"Asharq Al-Awsat reflects a broad Arab editorial perspective with strong attention to regional geopolitics."
— A47 Editor
مصادر: الاتفاق تم… دونيس مدرباً للمنتخب السعودي في كأس العالم
Sources have revealed that a final agreement has been reached between the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and Greek coach Georgios Donis to lead the Saudi national team in the upcoming World Cup. This development was reported by Asharq Al-Awsat on ...