Moroccan football administrator Nasser Larguet has resigned from his position as National Technical Director of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), bringing an end to a four-year spell during which he helped oversee major development projects across the country’s football structure.
Larguet announced his departure through a message on social media, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Saudi football during a period of significant investment and growth.
The Moroccan, who previously worked in youth development and coaching roles, said he was leaving the federation with a sense of achievement after helping to strengthen grassroots football, coaching education programmes and national team structures.
“After four years, I have chosen to step down from my position as National Technical Director of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation. I leave with immense pride and gratitude.”
His resignation comes as Saudi Arabia continues to expand its football ambitions under Vision 2030, a national development programme that has placed sport at the centre of its international strategy.
Larguet highlighted the scale of that ambition in his farewell statement.
“Since May 2022, it has been a privilege to serve a nation driven by Vision 2030, a country that will make history hosting the 48-teams FIFA World Cup 2034.”
The Moroccan football figure also paid tribute to Saudi Arabia’s leadership and football authorities for supporting his work during his tenure.
“Thank you to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to the Minister of Sport HH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, to SAFF President Yasser Al Misehal, and to the entire federation for their trust and support.”
Larguet’s departure marks the end of a period that he believes delivered tangible progress for Saudi football.
Reflecting on the achievements made during his time in charge of technical development, he pointed to successes across multiple levels of the game.
“Together, across grassroots, coaching education and our national teams, women and men alike, we have built solid foundations.”
He added: “The results speak for themselves: three teams qualified for World Cups in a single season, 11 titles since 2022, and a return to the U17 World Cup after 35 years.”
For African football observers, Larguet’s career continues to highlight the growing influence of African administrators and technical experts beyond the continent.
The Moroccan has built a reputation through his work in player development and football management, including previous roles in Europe before moving to Saudi Arabia.
His departure also comes at a time when Saudi football is preparing for a new chapter, with the country set to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup and continuing to invest heavily in football infrastructure and talent development.
Despite stepping down, Larguet expressed confidence in the future direction of the programme he helped shape.
“To everyone who has worked in the shadows to give Saudi football its rightful place on the world stage: thank you. To those who take up the baton, I wish every success, the foundations are solid, and the best is yet to come.”
The 67-year-old concluded his farewell by thanking Saudi Arabia for what he described as a memorable experience, bringing the curtain down on a chapter that saw him play a key role in one of the most ambitious football development projects in the modern game.
