Roberto Mancini Departs as Saudi Arabia's National Coach After 14 Months
Mancini and the Saudi Football Federation mutually agreed to terminate his contract following a series of unsatisfactory results.
- Roberto Mancini, who signed a contract until 2027, leaves Saudi Arabia's national team after a disappointing tenure marked by seven wins, six defeats, and five draws.
- The decision to part ways comes just weeks before a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Australia, with Saudi Arabia currently third in their qualifying group.
- Mancini faced criticism after the team's early exit from the Asian Cup and a recent loss to Japan, followed by a draw with Bahrain in World Cup qualifiers.
- The Saudi Football Federation plans to announce a new head coach within days, with Herve Renard, a former coach, being suggested as a potential candidate.
- Mancini, known for his successful stints with Inter Milan and Manchester City, had joined Saudi Arabia shortly after resigning as Italy's national team coach.