Saudi Arabia appoint Georgios Donis as coach ahead of 2026 World Cup

RIYADH — Saudi Arabian Football Federation announced on Thursday the appointment of Georgios Donis as head coach of the Saudi Arabia national football team on a contract running until July 2027.Donis succeeds Hervé Renard after the federation confirmed a mutual settlement had been reached to end the Frenchman’s tenure.The Greek coach brings extensive experience in both European football and the Saudi Pro League, having previously managed AEK Athens and PAOK FC, as well as Saudi clubs Al Hilal, Al Wehda, Al Fateh and most recently Al Khaleej.His familiarity with Saudi football is expected to help accelerate the team’s transition ahead of a crucial international period.During his coaching career, Donis has won the Cypriot league title and Cypriot Cup in 2013-14, in addition to major honors in Saudi Arabia including the King’s Cup in 2015, the Crown Prince Cup in 2015-16 and the Saudi Super Cup in 2015.Saudi Arabia are preparing for the final phase of their build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico.The Saudi federation added that a press conference featuring the new coaching staff will be held in Riyadh before the national team departs for its final training camp in the United States ahead of the tournament.