From Morocco to the Green: Walid Regragui Emerges as Saudi Coaching Favorite
30 March 2026
Walid Regragui Nears the Saudi Coaching Job
Saudi Arabia is closing in on appointing a new head coach for its national team, with Moroccan tactician Walid Regragui emerging as the frontrunner. Sources cited by Saudi sports channels indicate that the talks have moved into advanced stages and an announcement could be imminent.
The Saudi federation reportedly values Regragui for balancing solid defense with a proactive attack, a profile the team hopes will stabilize preparations ahead of World Cup 2026.
Other Options Considered, and a Rebuff
In addition to Regragui, conversations reportedly touched on Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi, who ultimately declined the offer. Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim was also floated as a potential candidate, with discussions possibly resuming in the coming hours.
The pursuit follows sharp criticism of Hervé Renard after a 4-0 friendly defeat to Egypt, triggering a broader coaching overhaul.
What It Means for the Green
Saudi fans hope a leadership change can restore balance and bring renewed energy to the squad ahead of forthcoming commitments.
Punchline 1: If Regragui nails this, the defense will finally stop taking vacation days and the attack might actually file a smoke signal with the net. Punchline 2: And if it blows up, at least the postmatch press conferences will have better lighting than my last vacation photos.
