Georgios Donis Appointed as Saudi Arabia Head Coach to Replace Herve Renard

Saudi Arabia have named Georgios Donis as their new head coach on a contract running until July 2027, the national federation confirmed on Thursday. The appointment comes weeks before the World Cup in North America, with Donis replacing Herve Renard following the resolution of his contract.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation said the decision was finalised after reaching a settlement with Renard, who had returned for a second spell in 2024. The federation added that Donis will take charge immediately as preparations continue for the upcoming tournament.

Coaching Background and Achievements

Donis, 56, brings experience from both European and Middle Eastern football. He has previously managed clubs such as AEK Athens and PAOK, along with stints in Saudi domestic competitions.

His honours include a league and cup double in Cyprus during the 2013-14 season. In Saudi Arabia, he has also secured multiple domestic titles, including the King’s Cup and Saudi Super Cup in 2015.

Focus Shifts to World Cup Preparations

Saudi Arabia are currently finalising plans for their campaign at the Fifa World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico in June and July. The team has been drawn in Group H, where they will face Spain, Uruguay and Cape Verde.

The federation confirmed that a press briefing introducing the new coaching staff will take place in Riyadh before the squad departs for its training camp in the United States. The camp is expected to be the final phase of preparation ahead of the tournament.

Renard, who guided the team through qualification, leaves after overseeing Saudi Arabia’s return to the global stage. Donis now takes charge with limited time to prepare the side for the competition.