Hervé Renard Returns to Lead Saudi Arabia

Hervé Renard has returned as manager of the Saudi Arabian national football team after Roberto Mancini’s departure. Previously, Renard led the team from July 2019 to March 2023, during which he achieved a significant upset by guiding Saudi Arabia to a stunning victory over Argentina in the group stage of the 2022 Qatar World Cup.  After he left the Saudi men’s team, Renard took the helm of France’s women’s squad for the 2023 World Cup and is set to lead them in the upcoming Olympics.

Meanwhile, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation appointed Mancini as manager in August 2023 after he stepped down as Italy’s head coach. However, Mancini faced challenges during his tenure, which ultimately prompted the federation to terminate his contract. In a video shared on the Saudi national team’s X account, Renard expressed his excitement about his return, stating, “I am back. I did not intend to leave, but when your country knocks on your door, you have to respond. I did not finish my story with Saudi yet.”

Looking ahead, Hervé Renard will kick off his second term as manager with World Cup qualifiers against Australia and Indonesia in November. His prior experience with the team and successful track record make him a strong candidate to revitalize the squad as they aim for success in the upcoming qualifiers. Additionally, Renard’s deep understanding of Saudi football and his previous accomplishments give fans and players alike hope as they look forward to a promising new chapter.