60 days before the World Cup...a sudden change shakes the Saudi national team
The Saudi Football Association announced the termination of the contract with French coach Herve Renard, just about two months before the start of the 2026 World Cup, in a sudden decision that sparked widespread controversy.
Renard brought down the curtain on his period with the Saudi national team after leading it in 68 matches, during which he achieved 30 victories, compared to 16 draws and 22 losses, while scoring 81 goals and conceding 63. A goal.
His career witnessed remarkable numbers, as he is considered to have led the team the most, and he also topped the list of coaches with the most draws and losses, in addition to being the most goals conceded in the history of the “Greens”.
The timing of the decision raised many questions, especially with the World Cup approaching, as observers believe that a change at this stage may put the new coach under great pressure, in light of the limited time available for preparation.
In the context of searching for an alternative, the federation’s management is considering several names to succeed him. Renard, including Pericles Shamouska and Giorgos Donis, in addition to Pedro Emanuel.
In this context, Pedro Emanuel’s agent indicated that taking over as coach of the national team during the World Cup is an option, while at the same time emphasizing the current coach’s focus on his mission with his team until the end of the season.
The Saudi Federation is expected to decide the file of the new coach during the next few days, in light of increasing pressure, while the question remains about the next coach’s ability to lead the team. And overcome challenges in a limited period of time.
