Regragui front-runner as Saudi Arabia considers coaching change

A Saudi player assists his teammate during a friendly against Egypt.

BELGRADE, March 30: Saudi Arabia faces Serbia today at 7:00 PM at TSC Stadium in Belgrade in an international friendly as both sides continue preparations for the World Cup. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Walid Regragui has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge of the “Green Falcons,” with a decision expected in the coming days.

Regragui is said to be close to the role and could lead Saudi Arabia at the upcoming World Cup should the federation decide to part ways with current coach Hervé Renard.

The move follows a series of disappointing results, most notably the heavy 4-0 defeat to Egypt, prompting the Saudi Arabian Football Federation to consider changes to restore stability ahead of key international competitions.

Other names under consideration include Xavi Hernández, Roberto De Zerbi, and Rúben Amorim, as the federation weighs its options before making a final decision.

A heavy loss to Serbia could accelerate a coaching change, with Regragui widely viewed as the frontrunner to guide Saudi Arabia into the 2026 World Cup.