Sensational reason for Hervé Renard's dismissal as Saudi Arabia head coach revealed
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
The Saudi Arabian national team has parted ways with head coach Hervé Renard. The specialist, who previously guided the team to qualification for the 2026 World Cup, was dismissed on Friday, April 17.
According to L’Équipe, rumors surrounding Renard's future played a key role in his departure. In March, negotiations took place between Renard and the federation's management, during which the coach confirmed his intention to continue working with the team. However, soon after, reports emerged about interest from the Ghanaian national team, which was searching for a new head coach.
Although Renard, according to sources, turned down the offer from the Ghanaian federation and decided to remain in Saudi Arabia, doubts began to surface within the leadership. The atmosphere within the federation became tense, and some officials were reportedly not opposed to a coaching change.
It’s worth recalling that Renard led the Saudi national team in two spells — from July 2019 to March 2023, and then returned to the post in October 2024. Under his guidance, the team successfully qualified for the 2026 World Cup.
