Departure of Donis from Al Khaleej amid rumors and official denial

Speculation about the future of Greek coach Georgios Donis has intensified following the postponement of the AFC Asian Cup 2027, amid reports suggesting the possibility of his departure and the appointment of a new coach to lead Saudi Arabia.

These reports came after the Asian Football Confederation announced the rescheduling of the tournament, which will now take place from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028, instead of its previous dates between January 7 and February 5, 2027.

Reports have circulated in recent days about the possibility of Donis being sacked, with several names suggested as his replacement, but the Saudi Arabian Football Federation issued an official denial, confirming that the Greek coach will continue in his role.

Donis has been linked with a departure following the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup 27, where Saudi Arabia won the title, after reports suggested the possibility of signing Spanish coach Roberto Martínez as his replacement.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation denied those reports at the time as well, amid calls to maintain technical stability and avoid changes to the coaching staff before upcoming commitments.

Donis took over as coach of Saudi Arabia in April, succeeding Frenchman Hervé Renard, and led the national team during the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the AFC Asian Cup, which saw Saudi Arabia return to the podium after a 23-year absence.