The Saudi Arabian national team has parted ways with head coach Hervé Renard. He was dismissed on Friday, April 17, after successfully guiding the team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Reports from L’Équipe indicate that speculation about Renard’s future contributed to his exit. In March, he held talks with the federation’s management, affirming his desire to continue in his role. However, soon after, news emerged of interest from the Ghanaian national team as they searched for a new head coach.
Although Renard reportedly declined an offer from the Ghanaian federation and chose to stay in Saudi Arabia, concerns began to rise among the leadership. Tensions within the federation grew, and some officials appeared open to the idea of a coaching change.
It’s notable that Renard had two terms as the head coach of the Saudi national team, first from July 2019 to March 2023, and then returning to the role in October 2024. During his tenure, he successfully led the team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.