Donis plans long-term Saudi Arabia project despite uncertainty over future

Georgios Donis says speculation about his position as Saudi Arabia manager is damaging the national team, although he insists he remains committed to the “Green”.

Saudi Arabia beat South Korea 3-2 at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Doha on Friday in their first friendly during the current international break, as they prepare for their upcoming commitments.

The result was Saudi Arabia’s first victory over South Korea for 21 years. Their previous wins came in 2005, when they defeated their opponents 2-0 and 1-0 in the two World Cup 2006 qualifying matches.

Since then, the teams had met six times without a Saudi victory. South Korea won two of those games and the other four ended in draws before Friday’s result.

Speaking at his post-match news conference, in comments reported by Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, Donis said he had selected a 30-man squad to prepare for the Asian Cup and give every player an opportunity to demonstrate their ability.

“I am happy with what I saw from them,” said the Greek manager. “They showed great fighting spirit, whether they played for 10 minutes or the entire match.”

Donis felt Saudi Arabia had performed particularly well for most of the game.

“Our performance was excellent for 75 minutes,” he said. “We faced difficulties at the end, but we pressed as much as possible and produced a confident display.”

He added that building from the dressing room was essential, with players needing confidence, concentration and clear communication.

“All the players followed the tactical instructions required of them, while we showed great respect for the opposition,” Donis said.

Donis rejects rumours over his position

Addressing reports about his future, Donis said he felt closely connected to the country after working there with both the national team and clubs.

“You know that I am a frank person and that I convey many messages,” he said. “I feel that I am part of Saudi Arabia. I am not just an ordinary coach, even when I was managing clubs here.”

Donis said the postponement of the Asian Cup had created uncertainty around his contract, which was due to expire before the tournament’s revised date. He also criticised reports linking several high-profile coaches with the job.

“After the Asian Cup was postponed, I told my technical staff that our contract would end before the new date of the tournament,” he said. “Then some people began mentioning the names of major coaches. These rumours are completely unhelpful.”

He claimed a Greek friend in NEOM had told him, after his return from Jeddah, that he would be dismissed following the Gulf Cup.

“I am still with the national team,” Donis said. “The rumours do not affect me personally, but they harm the dressing room. Those around us understand the scale of our work, and what is being said is unfair to us.”

Donis said he had prepared a plan through to the CONCACAF stage, including meetings with clubs and a focus on developing players under the age of 23.

Saudi Arabia, he added, had a new generation that needed a clear long-term strategy. His technical programme covers the period up to the March break, when friendlies are planned, followed by preparations for their participation in CONCACAF.

“Even if I am not the head coach of this team, I will always remain the Green’s biggest supporter,” he said.