Renard stipulates that players must be regular starters to be included in the Saudi national team
In a statement reflecting his strict technical vision for the upcoming phase, Frenchman Hervé Renard, head coach of the Saudi Arabian national football team, emphasized the importance of players regularly participating with their clubs in domestic competitions to secure their place in the national team squad. This statement comes at a sensitive time for the Saudi team, as they strive to regain their footing in the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
The challenges of the Roshan League and its impact on the national team
Saudi players currently face an unprecedented challenge amidst the tremendous growth of the Saudi Professional League. With clubs attracting world-class stars in various positions, playing time for some local players has dwindled. This underscores the importance of Renard's message, which serves as a wake-up call for players to fight for starting positions at their clubs. Sitting on the bench, regardless of the club's prestige, will not guarantee a place on the national team roster.
The return of the French fox and the restoration of identity
Renard's statements cannot be understood in isolation from the historical context of his relationship with Saudi football. The coach who led the "Green Falcons" to a historic victory over Argentina in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has returned to the helm with the aim of restoring the fighting spirit and tactical identity that the national team has recently lacked. Renard is well aware of the capabilities of Saudi players, but he also understands that talent alone is not enough in modern football without physical and mental readiness, which comes only through consistent match performance.
Mental fitness and match sensitivity
From a technical standpoint, Renard focuses on the concept of "match fitness." Daily training, however intense, cannot compensate for the pressure of official, competitive matches. A player who participates regularly is better equipped to make quick decisions under pressure and more prepared to withstand the high tempo of international matches. These criteria are the cornerstone of Renard's training philosophy, which relies on high pressure and rapid transitions—methods that demand players at their peak physical condition.
The road to the 2026 World Cup
These statements take on added significance as the competition intensifies in the Asian qualifiers. The Saudi national team aspires not only to qualify for the 2026 World Cup but also to deliver a respectable performance that reflects the development of sports in the Kingdom. Therefore, the French coach's message is clear: the national team will be selected based on merit and readiness, and the pitch will be the sole arbiter. This approach is likely to increase competition among local players to prove themselves to their club coaches, which will ultimately have a positive impact on the national team's performance.
