Saudi Arabia’s Football Federation is facing a decision over the future of Greece manager Georgios Donis, despite his success in leading the team to the Arabian Gulf Cup, known as Gulf 27.
Reports from Saudi Sports Channel say the federation had already reached an agreement with former Portugal manager Roberto Martinez before the tournament began, with the Spaniard expected to take charge of the national team ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Donis was appointed before the 2026 World Cup as the successor to Herve Renard. Although he was unable to guide Saudi Arabia beyond the group stage at the tournament, he ended the team’s 23-year wait for the Gulf title by winning the competition on home soil.
The uncertainty over his position increased after Saudi Football Federation president Badr Al-Ruzayza gave no firm commitment about Donis’ future during the celebrations following the final.
Asked whether there would be changes to the coaching staff before the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, Al-Ruzayza told the Saudi Sports Channel: “I cannot confirm whether the technical staff will continue or change before the Asian Cup. This matter belongs to Mat Croker, the federation’s technical director.”
According to the same broadcaster, the agreement with Martinez was arranged through Croker before the start of Gulf 27. Saudi Sports Channel reporter Ammar Bahakim said: “Badr Al-Ruzayza did not confirm Donis’ continuation with the Saudi national team. According to our information, the Saudi Football Federation, through Mat Croker, reached an agreement with the Spanish coach Roberto Martinez, and the agreement was made before the Gulf Cup.”
That development has left the federation weighing two difficult options after Saudi Arabia’s tournament triumph. It could retain Donis, apologise to Martinez and cancel the agreement with him, or end the Greek coach’s tenure despite his recent success and the trophy victory.
Donis’ contract with the Saudi federation runs until the end of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Martinez is currently without a contract after leaving his role as Portugal manager following their elimination by Spain at the 2026 World Cup. His name had also previously been linked with the vacant position at Al-Nassr, who have Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix in their squad, after the departure of Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus.
However, negotiations between Martinez and Al-Nassr did not result in a final agreement. Martinez had also been mentioned as a possible candidate to manage the Netherlands national team.