Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Leading Italian media La Gazzetta dello Sport claims the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) has decided to fire Roberto Mancini.
This decision was taken by SAFF after the Saudi Arabian national team again achieved poor results in Group C of the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifications. Playing at home, The Green Falcons were held to a goalless draw by Bahrain, 15 October.
“After returning negative results, President [Federasi Arab Saudi] said the choice must be made immediately. “The Saudi Arabian Football Federation decided to fire the former coach of the European champions with Italy in 2021. For the Saudi media, the story is over,” wrote La Gazzetta in its report.
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In its article, the Pizza Country media emphasized that the decision on this matter was just waiting for approval from the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“The only thing missing is the government’s approval, which is expected [akan dikeluarkan] tonight or tomorrow at the latest.”
SAFF has reportedly even made contact with two coaches who are on the list of candidates to replace Mancini. The two names are Ramon Diaz and Herve Renard.
Diaz is a coach from Argentina who currently manages Brazilian club Corinthians. Meanwhile, Renard is no stranger to the Saudi Arabian public because he has handled Salem Al Dawsari and his friends.
Saudi Arabia’s position in Group C is indeed unsatisfactory even though its chances of qualifying directly for the 2026 World Cup are still maintained. Saudi Arabia, which is one of the favorites, is now in third place with a collection of five points.
Saudi Arabia, which is in the same group as the Indonesian National Team, has the same number of points as Australia and Bahrain. The top position is occupied by Japan, which has collected 10 points from four matches.
[Gambas:Video CNN]
(jal/sry)
