According to Renard, there was a straightforward reason why he chose to leave his post as Saudi coach. “I didn’t intend to leave, but when your country knocks on your door, you have to answer,” says Renard.
“My connection with Saudi Arabia, the fans, the players, and all the memories I’ll never be able to forget. I haven’t finished my story with Saudi Arabia.”
During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Renard orchestrated one of the greatest upsets in the history of Saudi Arabia, as his side came back to defeat the future world champions Argentina 2-1.
The Saudis have had a difficult start to their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign, winning just one of their last five contests (2-1 over China).
They are tied with Australia for second place in the third qualification round, which comes with an automatic qualification in the upcoming World Cup.