Saudi Arabia dismiss fresh reports that Georgios Donis will leave before 2027 Asian Cup

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has again denied reports that Georgios Donis will step down as manager of the Saudi Arabia national team before the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

The latest claims were made by Saudi broadcaster Abdulrahman Al-Humaidi, presenter of the Nadina programme on MBC 1. He said Donis was 99% certain to leave his position.

However, Saudi channel Al Ekhbariya reported that the federation had rejected those claims and confirmed that the Greek manager would remain in charge of the Green Falcons during the coming period.

It is the second time the Saudi Arabian Football Federation has publicly denied reports of Donis’ departure. The governing body issued a similar denial in October.

Saudi Arabia are scheduled to face South Korea in a friendly on 13 November 2026.

Reports had previously suggested that the federation was considering appointing Roberto Martinez, the former Portugal manager, to lead the team at the 2027 Asian Cup instead of Donis.

Those reports prompted anger among Saudi football supporters, particularly because of the limited time remaining before the tournament was due to begin. The reaction led the federation to issue its earlier denial.

The decision to postpone the 2027 Asian Cup from January to December next year has since renewed speculation over Donis’ position. The revised schedule means there is now more time before the tournament, increasing the possibility of a change in the dugout, according to the reports.

Donis took charge of Saudi Arabia in April, replacing French manager Herve Renard. His appointment came only two months before the 2026 World Cup, where Saudi Arabia were eliminated in the group stage.

Despite that early World Cup exit, Donis guided the Green Falcons to their first title in 23 years when they won the 27th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup, known as Gulf Cup 27, in October.