Giorgos Donis’s future is back in the spotlight as Saudi Arabia begin their training camp in Doha. The Greek coach is preparing for two friendlies amid speculation over who will lead the Green Falcons at their home Asian Cup.
The debate began when the Asian Football Confederation moved the tournament from January to December 2027. The new dates put the Asian Cup beyond the end of Donis’s current contract, which runs until next July, according to Al Riyadiyah.
“I don’t pay attention to the rumours that crop up from time to time about my future with the Saudi national team,” Donis told the Saudi newspaper. He added that his priority in Doha was to focus on his work and improve the team’s performances.
Asked about reports linking other coaches with the job, Donis said, “I have enough experience to deal with the speculation about my future.” He also reaffirmed his commitment to leading the team through its upcoming fixtures.
Donis succeeded Hervé Renard in April and led Saudi Arabia to the Gulf Cup title with a 2–0 win over the United Arab Emirates in Jeddah. It was the Green Falcons’ fourth title in the competition and their first in 23 years.
Saudi Arabia have won five, drawn four and lost two of their 11 matches under Donis. According to Okaz, he will lead the team at the Concacaf Gold Cup, which runs from June to July 2027.
The Green Falcons face South Korea in Doha on Friday, 13 November, before wrapping up their camp against Uzbekistan on Tuesday, 17 November. As Donis’s contract nears its end, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation will decide who leads the team at the Asian Cup.
