French coach Hervé Renard is set to take charge of Saudi Arabia for what is expected to be his final match, with reports indicating that the Saudi Arabian Football Federation has decided to part ways with him ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 57-year-old will oversee an international friendly against Serbia, which is widely viewed as a transitional fixture before his departure is officially confirmed.
Sources suggest the decision has already been made internally, with an announcement expected shortly after the game.
Renard’s impending exit comes despite guiding Saudi Arabia to qualification for the World Cup finals in North America.
However, recent performances have raised concerns, prompting the federation to reconsider its technical direction at a crucial stage of preparations.
A heavy 4-0 defeat to Egypt in a recent friendly appears to have intensified pressure on the coaching staff, accelerating the decision to make a change.
With just weeks remaining before the tournament, Saudi Arabia are now expected to appoint a new head coach as they seek to improve results and performance levels.
Renard’s situation has also drawn attention in Africa, where he is emerging as a leading candidate for the vacant Ghana head coach position.
The Ghana Football Association recently dismissed Otto Addo following a series of disappointing results, including a 2-1 defeat to Germany and a heavy 5-1 loss to Austria in international friendlies.
As Ghana look to stabilise their team ahead of the World Cup, Renard’s experience on the continent is seen as a major advantage.
The Frenchman has previously won the Africa Cup of Nations with both Zambia and Ivory Coast, establishing a reputation for delivering success in African football.
He also has prior links to the Ghana national team, having served as an assistant coach during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations.
Reports indicate that he is open to a return, this time as head coach, as the Black Stars seek to rebuild ahead of the global tournament.
Renard’s managerial career has taken him across several countries and clubs, including spells with Angola, USM Alger, Lille, Sochaux and Morocco.
He also coached the French women’s national team at the 2024 Olympic Games, where they were eliminated in the quarter-finals.
With multiple nations making changes to their technical teams ahead of the World Cup, Renard’s next move is likely to be closely watched.
Ghana, in particular, are under pressure to appoint a new coach quickly, as they prepare for a challenging campaign on the world stage.
