Saudi Arabia: Here’s the inside story behind Hervé Renard’s departure

World 18 April 2026 at 08:18

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

Yesterday, Hervé Renard was dismissed by Saudi Arabia as head coach of the national team. The behind-the-scenes details of this premature exit have now come to light.

Hervé Renard was sacked less than two months before the 2026 World Cup by Saudi Arabia on Friday. The French tactician ultimately paid the price for a tense internal climate. On Saturday, L’Équipe revealed that the French manager had actually been given assurances after the March international break.

According to the daily, talks with Ghana—who were interested in his profile—were viewed unfavorably by Saudi officials and undermined his position. Despite a final meeting to clarify his situation and reaffirm his commitment, the federation ultimately decided to let him go, citing unsatisfactory results and an increasingly uncertain atmosphere.