Reliable Spanish media outlets, specifically AS , have reported that Spaniard Ramon Planes, currently the sporting director of Saudi club Al-Ittihad, is the leading candidate to become the sporting director of the Saudi national football team in the coming period. This move comes as part of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's efforts to restructure the national team's technical and administrative structure, particularly in light of the significant challenges facing Saudi football on the international stage.
Sources indicate that Planes' selection was not arbitrary, but rather based on a firm belief in his administrative and technical capabilities, demonstrated throughout his long career in European football and most recently with Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Professional League. This move aims to strengthen the connection between the coaching staff and the federation, ensuring a unified technical vision that serves the goals of the Saudi national team, especially after the recent dissatisfaction within the sports community.
The repercussions of exiting the Arab Cup and the need for change
This swift administrative move comes as a direct response to the public outcry following the Saudi national team's elimination from the 2025 Arab Cup in the semi-finals. This exit has raised numerous questions about the performance of the coaching staff, led by Frenchman Hervé Renard, and the current system's ability to meet expectations in upcoming competitions. Experts believe that appointing a sporting director with broad powers and international experience, such as Planes, will alleviate pressure on the coach and create a professional working environment focused on sustainable development rather than temporary solutions.
Who is Ramon Planes? A wealth of experience from Barcelona to Jeddah
Ramon Planes possesses an impressive resume that makes him a valuable asset to Saudi football. He previously served as the technical secretary of FC Barcelona, where he played a pivotal role in discovering and recruiting young talents who went on to become global stars, such as Pedri and Ronald Araujo. He also had successful stints as a sporting director at other Spanish clubs, including Getafe and Real Betis, where he distinguished himself by his ability to build competitive teams with well-considered budgets and to uncover hidden gems.
The importance of the move and the future of Saudi football
This step is of paramount strategic importance that goes beyond mere administrative appointment; it aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 in the sports sector and the ongoing preparations to host major international tournaments, including the 2027 Asian Cup and the 2034 World Cup. Having someone with Planes' experience will enhance the professionalism of the work within the national team and ensure the application of the latest international standards in managing national teams, from the youth categories to the first team, thus establishing a new phase of technical and administrative stability for the Saudi national team.
