Saudi Arabia’s football federation officially confirmed Giorgios Donies will remain as head coach of the national team, rejecting recent reports of an impending dismissal just days after the squad captured the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup title in Jeddah.
The announcement put an end to swirling media speculation regarding the Greek manager’s future. Local reports had suggested the governing body was preparing to replace Donies with Roberto Martínez ahead of upcoming continental fixtures.
Saudi Federation Backs Coach Amid Rumors
Publishing an official notice via its social media channels, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation renewed its backing for Donies, dismissing claims that a coaching change was underway.
With reference to what is being circulated in the media regarding the head coach of the first national team, Mr. Giorgios Donies, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation would like to confirm that the coach is continuing with the team, and there is no decision whatsoever regarding changing the technical staff in light of what has been circulated. The
The organization also called on media outlets to exercise caution and rely solely on official channels for information regarding the national squad.
Gulf Cup Victory Follows Coach Appointment
The reassurance follows the national team’s victory in the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup. Saudi Arabia secured the championship on Tuesday by defeating the United Arab Emirates 2–0 in the final at the Al-Inma Stadium within King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, claiming the tournament title for the fourth time in history.
Donies took charge of the squad on April 23 under a contract extending through July 2027, succeeding French coach Hervé Renard. His tenure included group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup before steering the team through the regional tournament in Jeddah.
Analysts Recall Previous Management Changes
Despite the official denial, local commentators pointed to previous management changes as a source of ongoing fan anxiety. Analysts on regional sports broadcasts noted that earlier coaching departures—such as the exits of Edgardo Bauza, Juan Antonio Pizzi, and Hervé Renard—frequently followed public assurances from federation officials.
With preparations now underway for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup hosted in the Kingdom, the federation’s firm stance aims to steady the technical staff as the team transitions from regional success to continental competition.
