TLDR:
Renard rejoins Saudi Arabia men’s team
Led Saudi Arabia in 2022 World Cup
Strategic PIF investments in Saudi football
RIYADH (The Thursday Times) — Herve Renard has returned as Saudi Arabia’s head coach following Roberto Mancini’s departure. Renard’s comeback marks a pivotal shift for Saudi Arabia’s men’s national team as they work towards their goals for the 2026 World Cup and future tournaments. Known for his transformative impact, Renard had previously guided Saudi Arabia to the 2022 World Cup, delivering a stunning win against Argentina, who went on to clinch the trophy. The Frenchman’s impressive track record includes stints with several African nations and a recent tenure with France’s women’s team, bringing deep international experience to his role. Saudi Arabia will now look to his leadership as they aim to solidify their standing in the World Cup qualifiers and prepare for hosting the 2034 tournament.
Renard returns to Saudi coaching role
After Roberto Mancini’s tenure ended by mutual consent, Saudi Arabia’s Football Federation acted swiftly, bringing back Herve Renard to head the men’s national team. Renard’s prior success during his four-year leadership from 2019 to 2023 brought Saudi Arabia into the international spotlight, particularly after a memorable 2-1 victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup. Known for his tactical acumen and intense focus on team-building, Renard’s previous stint shaped Saudi football, although the squad faced group-stage exits after losses to Poland and Mexico. His return follows a recent coaching spell with the French women’s team, taking them to notable performances in both the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics.
A journey from cleaner to global coach
Renard’s managerial career has spanned over two decades, and his path to success is the subject of admiration and intrigue. Starting from humble beginnings as a cleaner, Renard’s journey exemplifies resilience and ambition, reflected in his previous roles with nations like Zambia, Angola, Morocco, and Ivory Coast. His management has frequently inspired teams to achieve beyond expectations, demonstrated by a historic World Cup qualification for Zambia and a championship win with Ivory Coast in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. Renard’s commitment to developing national teams has made him a sought-after coach in international football, often bringing vitality and structure to his squads.
Saudi aspirations for the 2026 World Cup
Under Renard’s guidance, Saudi Arabia hopes to advance to the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Currently third in Group C for the qualification rounds, Saudi Arabia aims to secure an automatic qualification spot or advance through the next stages. The football landscape is in a transformative phase within Saudi Arabia, driven by the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) substantial influence. The PIF, now deeply involved in both domestic and international football, has been at the centre of significant investments, including its 2021 acquisition of Newcastle United and major funding of top-tier local clubs. Players of international renown, such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, have joined the Saudi league, bringing global attention to Saudi football and raising the stakes for the national team’s performance.
PIF investments, 2034 World Cup vision
Saudi Arabia’s long-term vision extends beyond the 2026 World Cup as they prepare to host the 2034 tournament. The PIF’s involvement in football underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambitious goals for the sport, with key acquisitions in the Saudi Pro League and a focus on attracting international talent. High-profile players like Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, and Roberto Firmino are now part of the Saudi league, elevating the national competition’s profile. The PIF’s strategy aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, with football seen as both an economic and cultural driver, enhancing the nation’s position on the global stage. Renard’s appointment, therefore, is not merely about national team performance but also a step towards building a legacy for Saudi football, aiming for prominence in both regional and international arenas.
