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Saudi Arabia Names Georgios Donis Head Coach Weeks Before World Cup

The federation is banking on his Saudi Pro League experience for quick adaptation.

Soccer Football - Saudi Pro League - Al Hilal v Al Wehda - Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - December 15, 2023 Al Wehda coach Georgios Donis REUTERS/Ahmed Yosri/File Photo

Overview

  • Saudi Arabia appointed Georgios Donis on Thursday to a contract that runs until July 2027, replacing Hervé Renard ahead of the 2026 tournament.
  • The federation said it will hold a press conference in Riyadh before the squad departs for a training camp in the United States.
  • Donis, 56, is a former Greece international who joins from Al-Khaleej, and SAFF highlighted his extensive domestic league experience as a reason he can adjust fast.
  • Saudi Arabia will play in Group H against Uruguay, Spain and Cape Verde, opening against Uruguay on June 15.
  • Renard’s second spell, which began in October 2024, ended after a 4-0 loss to Egypt and a 2-1 defeat to Serbia despite steering qualification.