Shock Saudi sacking looms for Herve Renard as replacement lined up amid Ghana links

The future of French coach Hervé Renard is hanging in the balance after reports in Saudi Arabia suggested the national team is preparing to part ways with him.

This comes amid growing uncertainty over his leadership and increasing interest from abroad, including Ghana.

Media outlets in the Gulf state indicated on Thursday evening that the Saudi Arabian Football Federation is close to making a decision on Renard’s dismissal, with an official announcement expected imminently.

The development comes at a delicate moment for the team, whose recent performances have triggered widespread scrutiny and calls for change at technical level.

The timing of the potential dismissal has added further intrigue, particularly with multiple national team projects monitoring the situation closely ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup cycle.

Donis lined up as replacement

According to Saudi newspaper reports, the federation has already identified Greek coach Georgios Donis as its preferred candidate to take over.

Donis, currently in charge of Al-Khaleej FC, is said to have emerged ahead of other contenders working in the Saudi Pro League this season.

The report claims that a formal announcement could be made within days, with Donis selected based on technical evaluation and prior managerial experience across several Saudi clubs, including stints at Al-Hilal, Al-Fateh and Al-Wehda. His familiarity with the domestic league structure is believed to have strengthened his case.

Renard, meanwhile, has faced criticism following a heavy 4-0 defeat to Egypt and a 2-1 loss to Serbia during the March international window, results that intensified scrutiny on his position.

Ghana interest resurfaces

Beyond Saudi Arabia, Renard’s situation has also drawn attention in Ghana, where he was previously viewed as a leading candidate for the national team job following the dismissal of Otto Addo ahead of World Cup planning.

The Ghana Football Association was reportedly keen on securing his services, but negotiations stalled due to his existing contract in Saudi Arabia. Despite that setback, sources suggest he remains a long-term target for the West African nation.

Ghana has since appointed Carlos Queiroz on a short-term four-month deal to guide the team through the immediate World Cup preparations, with Renard still understood to be under consideration for a more permanent role in the future should he become available.