In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the international football community, Saudi Arabia has parted ways with head coach Hervé Renard less than two months before the 2026 World Cup kicks off. The Frenchman confirmed the news himself on Friday, marking a dramatic and untimely end to his second stint in charge of the Green Falcons.
Renard, 57, is a legendary figure in Saudi football, having masterminded one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history: the 2-1 victory over eventual champions Argentina during the 2022 tournament in Qatar. His return to the helm in late 2024 was seen as a stabilizing force, but the federation has now decided on a different path with the global spectacle looming.
Reflecting on his departure with characteristic grace, Renard highlighted his unique legacy. "That's football... Saudi Arabia have qualified for the World Cup seven times, including twice with me," he stated. "And there's only one coach who has led them through both the qualifiers and the World Cup; that's me, in 2022. At least there will be that sense of pride."
Renard's coaching pedigree is beyond question. A two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner with different nations (Zambia and Ivory Coast), he also successfully guided the France women's national team to quarter-finals in major tournaments before his Saudi recall. He was brought back specifically to replace Roberto Mancini, whose 14-month tenure was deemed underwhelming.
With time of the essence, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation is reportedly moving quickly to appoint a successor. Former Greece international Georgios Donis, currently managing Saudi Pro League side Al Khaleej, is the frontrunner, with talks already underway according to sources.
The timing of this change adds immense pressure, as the new manager will have precious little time to prepare a squad set to face a formidable Group H at the World Cup, featuring football powerhouses Spain and Uruguay, alongside the dangerous Cape Verde. All eyes will now be on Riyadh to see if this bold gamble pays off on the world's biggest stage.