Donis responds to Saudi Arabia dismissal reports as federation backs coach

Saudi Arabia manager Georgios Donis has addressed reports linking him with a departure from the national team, saying he is focused on improving the side rather than on speculation about his future.

“I am not concerned by the rumours that appear from time to time about my professional future with the Saudi national team,” Donis told Saudi newspaper Al Riyadiyah.

“What matters to me now is developing the Green Falcons and concentrating on the work. I have the experience to deal with what is being said about my future, and I will give my best to serve Saudi football.”

The comments follow a report by Saudi journalist Abdulrahman Al-Humaidi, presenter of the Nadina programme on MBC 1, who said Donis was 99% certain to leave his position.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has denied that the Greek coach is facing dismissal, according to Saudi broadcaster Al Ekhbariya, and confirmed that he would remain in charge.

It is the second time the federation has rejected reports of Donis’ departure, having issued a similar denial in October.

Why was Donis’ position questioned?

Reports had claimed the federation was considering appointing Roberto Martinez, the former Portugal manager, to lead Saudi Arabia at the 2027 AFC Asian Cup instead of Donis.

Those reports prompted anger among Saudi football supporters, particularly because of the limited time remaining before the tournament. The federation responded by denying that a change was planned.

However, the postponement of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup from January to December next year revived speculation over Donis’ position, with more time now available before the competition begins.

Donis’ record with Saudi Arabia

Donis was appointed Saudi Arabia manager in April, replacing French coach Herve Renard only two months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Saudi Arabia were eliminated in the group stage.

They drew 1-1 with Uruguay and 0-0 with Cape Verde, before suffering a 4-0 defeat by Spain. The results left them bottom of Group H with two points.

Donis nevertheless guided Saudi Arabia to their first trophy in 23 years when they won the 27th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup, known as Gulf 27, in October.

The Green Falcons won four of their five matches in the tournament and prevailed in the other through a penalty shootout. They scored eight goals and conceded none.

Overall, Saudi Arabia have played 11 matches under Donis in competitive and friendly football. They have recorded five victories, four draws and two defeats, scoring 13 goals and conceding seven.