Saudi Arabia has appointed Greek coach Georgios Donis as the new head coach of its national football team ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, marking a major leadership change just weeks before the tournament. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation confirmed the decision on Thursday, bringing in Donis to replace French coach Hervé Renard after his departure following recent team evaluations.

Donis, 56, arrives with extensive managerial experience in both European and Middle Eastern football, having previously coached clubs such as AEK Athens, Panathinaikos, Al-Hilal, and Al-Fateh. His familiarity with Saudi club football is seen as a key factor in his selection, with officials expecting a smoother transition as the national team enters its final preparation phase for the World Cup.

The appointment comes at a critical moment for Saudi Arabia, which is intensifying its training schedule ahead of the global tournament. The team is expected to compete in a challenging group stage, and the federation has emphasised the need for tactical stability and quick adaptation under the new coach. Donis is also set to oversee the squad during key friendlies and preparatory camps in the coming weeks.

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Renard’s exit follows a turbulent period marked by inconsistent performances in recent international matches, despite his earlier success in guiding Saudi Arabia to World Cup qualification. His departure ends a second stint in charge, having previously led the team during the 2022 World Cup, where Saudi Arabia famously defeated Argentina in a historic group-stage upset.

With Donis now at the helm, expectations are focused on how quickly he can implement his system and prepare the squad for high-intensity competition on football’s biggest stage. The Saudi football authorities have expressed confidence that his experience in regional football will help stabilize the team ahead of the tournament.

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