Informed sources revealed to Asharq Al-Awsat that the Saudi Arabian Football Federation has started early efforts by compiling a list of five coaches to choose from to lead the national team in case a decision is made to dismiss Hervé Renard.

This step comes as part of proactive preparations shortly before the start of the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with only about 60 days remaining.

The list included three coaches currently working in the Saudi league, along with two coaches from outside the Kingdom who have not previously had coaching experience in Saudi football.

The sources denied the existence of official meetings in recent days with some of the proposed names, despite reports suggesting potential contact with coaches, including the Greek Donis.

In the same context, the federation continues to evaluate the performance of the current coaching staff, with a final decision expected to be made within the next ten days, based on the results and a comprehensive review of the past period.

Previous reports had indicated a 30% likelihood of Renard's departure, amid a tendency within the federation to exercise caution before making any critical decisions at this sensitive time.

It is noted that the French coach received an offer to coach the Ghanaian national team, but he preferred to continue with the Saudi national team, as several players expressed their desire for him to stay in the upcoming phase.