Saudi goalkeeping legend Mohammed Al-Deayea has launched a scathing attack on the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) regarding the continued tenure of French coach Hervé Renard as head coach of the national team. Al-Deayea's remarks, made during an interview on the program "Our League is Different," come at a time of heightened anticipation and anxiety within the Saudi sports community concerning the future of the national team, "Al-Akhdar" (The Green), in light of upcoming international competitions.
Sharp criticism and description of the phase as a "waste of time"
Al-Da'ayee expressed his astonishment at the continued employment of Hervé Renard despite the team's recent unsatisfactory results, describing the French coach's continued presence as a "waste of time." The former world's most capped player indicated that the opportune moment to part ways was after the national team's elimination from the Arab Cup, when a courageous decision should have been made to inject new blood into the coaching staff, aligning with the high aspirations of Saudi fans.
Al-Da’ayee raised a crucial point in his criticism concerning Renard’s coaching career, questioning the technical rationale for bringing back a coach who had previously managed the French women’s national team to lead a national team the size of Saudi Arabia. Al-Da’ayee believes this move does not contribute to technical stability and does not reflect the current development of Saudi football, deeming the technical justifications for his continued presence unconvincing.
Jesus... the perfect choice for the next stage
In a related development, Mohammed Al-Deayea suggested an alternative name he believes is the ideal solution for the next phase: Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, the current manager of Al-Hilal (who is delivering exceptional performances in the league). Al-Deayea emphasized that Jesus possesses the firm leadership qualities and high tactical expertise that qualify him to lead the Saudi national team to the 2026 World Cup finals.
Al-Da’ayee bases his nomination of Jesus on the deep knowledge that the Portuguese coach possesses of the details of Saudi football and the capabilities of local players, which makes him able to extract the best from them and employ them correctly, unlike experiences that require a long time to adapt.
A message to the players: The national team jersey is a responsibility
Al-Da'ayeh's statements weren't limited to technical and administrative aspects; he also delivered a direct and impactful message to the national team players. He urged them to recognize the responsibility placed upon them and to understand the historical and symbolic value of wearing the Saudi national team jersey. He emphasized that representing the nation is a great honor that brooks no negligence or complacency, and that the Saudi fans expect a strong response from them on the field that will restore the Green Falcons to their former glory.
These statements come at a time when Saudi football is witnessing a major renaissance at the club level and the attraction of international stars, which raises expectations for the national team to keep pace with this development and appear in an honorable manner in international and regional forums.
