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Renard on the Brink: Will the Saudi World Cup Dream End Before 2026?

31 March 2026

Renard on the Brink: Will the Saudi World Cup Dream End Before 2026?
Renard’s future with Saudi Arabia under scrutiny as World Cup 2026 approaches.

Controversy surrounds the future of French coach Hervé Renard as World Cup 2026 looms over the horizon.

Renard’s Departure Talks Ahead of World Cup 2026

Recent reporting suggests Renard, who has been at the helm of the Saudi national team since 2024, is exploring an exit from his post before the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The coach has faced sharp criticism, including after a 4-0 defeat to Egypt and a 2-1 setback to Serbia in the team’s preparations for the finals.

French newspaper L'Équipe dropped a bombshell, claiming Renard could request to step away from the national team ahead of the World Cup, amid what is described as a difficult atmosphere surrounding Saudi football.

According to the report, Renard has raised concerns with the Saudi federation about the rising number of foreign players in the Saudi Pro League—now eight—and about local players often sitting on the bench at bigger clubs.

Renard argues that local players were previously fielded by weaker sides, but now they have become essential at major clubs, a shift he believes complicates achieving his objectives since resuming leadership of the team in 2024.

He reportedly feels unable to meet his long-term goals under the current conditions and is not enthusiastic about continuing into the World Cup journey, despite the federation’s wishes.

The French outlet also noted that Renard could be approached to coach Ghana, replacing Otto Addo who was dismissed after a defeat to Germany less than two and a half months before the World Cup.

If true, this would mark the third World Cup appearance for Renard with a different national team, following Morocco in 2018 and Saudi Arabia in 2022.

Renard began his coaching career in Africa with Ghana (2007-2008) as an assistant to Claude Le Roy, before moving to Zambia where he led the team to Africa Cup of Nations glory.

Punchline 1: If Renard exits, Saudi football might need a GPS for its World Cup roadmap—and maybe a better Wi‑Fi signal for team buses.

Punchline 2: World Cup 2026 drama continues — Renard or not, the rumor mill is already loading the cannon and the whistle is still squeaking.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What event sparked the rumors about Renard's departure?

Rumors emerged after a series of criticisms of Renard following defeats in friendlies, and a report by L'Équipe indicating he could seek to leave before the World Cup.

What issues does Renard reportedly cite in Saudi football?

He reportedly cites a high number of foreign players and locals who are often benched at major clubs, complicating his ability to implement his plans.

What possible future coaching role is discussed in the article?

Ghana’s national team role is mentioned as a potential replacement for Otto Addo, should Renard move on.

How many World Cup appearances has Renard had, and with which teams?

This would be his third World Cup with a different nation—Morocco in 2018, Saudi Arabia in 2022, and potentially another with Ghana.