The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has rejected reports that Georgios Donis is set to be dismissed as manager of the national team before Asian Cup 2027.
Reports had claimed the federation had decided to remove the Greek coach and reached an agreement with Spain’s Roberto Martinez to take charge of the Green Falcons, three months before the tournament begins.
However, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation said Donis would remain in his position and that no decision had been made to change the coaching staff.
In a statement published on its official account on X, the federation said: “With reference to the media reports concerning the head coach of the senior national team, Mr Georgios Donis, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation wishes to confirm that the coach will continue with the national team and that there is no decision regarding a change to the technical staff, contrary to what has been reported.”
It added: “The Saudi Arabian Football Federation calls on all media outlets to verify the accuracy of information and obtain it from official sources.”
The statement, issued on 8 October 2026, was the federation’s first official response to speculation surrounding Donis’ future.
Donis has enjoyed notable success since taking charge of Saudi Arabia, guiding the team to its first major title in 23 years by winning the 27th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup, known as Gulf 27.
That achievement led Saudi supporters to oppose the possibility of his dismissal and call for him to remain in charge, particularly with the Asian Cup approaching.
The 19th edition of the Asian Cup will be staged in Saudi Arabia next year, with matches taking place in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar from 7 January to 5 February.
Saudi Arabia will be seeking to win the Asian Cup for a fourth time. Their most recent triumph came in 1996, meaning they have gone 30 years without lifting the continental trophy.
The federation’s statement therefore leaves Donis in charge as Saudi Arabia continue preparations for a tournament being held on home soil.