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Renard's World Cup Future Under Fire as Al-Deayea Calls the Shot

16 December 2025

Renard's World Cup Future Under Fire as Al-Deayea Calls the Shot
Getty Images photo from the Arab Cup semifinal in Qatar.

Renard under scrutiny ahead of the World Cup

Mohammed Al-Deayea, the Saudi football legend, believes French coach Hervé Renard does not deserve to lead the Green Falcons at the 2026 World Cup.

Saudi Arabia lost 1-0 to Jordan on Monday in the Arab Cup semifinal in Qatar, ending the Green Falcons' bid for a new title under Renard.

Al-Deayea said on television that Renard offers nothing to the team, and there are no clear tactical traits visible under his leadership.

This coach does not fit Saudi football at all; we need another coach. Jordan's coach outperformed him completely; the Green held possession but produced little danger.

He added that when the captain is off the ship, he is not the captain, and that this defeat reveals many things.

He continued that even if they had won the Arab Cup, he would still say Renard has no positives.

He further said that in his view Renard does not deserve to lead the national team at the World Cup, and that if he couldn't beat Jordan in the Arab Cup, the team would struggle against Spain and Uruguay.

The former Saudi star also noted that Jordan would rely on counterattacks, and Renard failed to spot it and handle the game.

Finally, to end on a lighter note, some light punches of humor about leadership: If coaching were a long-range shot, he would miss on purpose and call it a precision pass. If leadership were a clock, his would be at halftime with the whistle already blown.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who criticized Renard's role?

Mohammed Al-Deayea, the Saudi football legend, said Renard does not deserve to coach Saudi at the 2026 World Cup.

What happened in the Arab Cup semi-final?

Saudi Arabia lost 1-0 to Jordan in Qatar, ending their bid for the Arab Cup title under Renard.

What is the main critique?

Al-Deayea argues Renard has shown no clear tactical plan or positive impact with the national team.

What did Al-Deayea suggest for the Saudis?

He said the team needs a different coach as Jordan outperformed them in the semifinal.