# Saudi Arabia Gulf Cup campaign and coaching status

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/saudi-arabia-gulf-cup-campaign-and-coaching-status
> Updated: 2026-10-06T20:59:02.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 2.

The Saudi Arabian national football team, coached by Georgios Donis, participated in the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup. During the group stage, Donis addressed squad availability, noting that Nawaf Al-Aqidi was sidelined by injury and Mohammed Al-Qahtani was out due to illness. Following a victory against Kuwait, the coaching staff focused on improving the team’s composure and decision-making within the penalty area.

Saudi Arabia ultimately won the tournament, securing its fourth Gulf Cup title with a 2-0 victory over the United Arab Emirates in the final. The team completed the competition without a loss or conceding a goal. 

Despite the championship win, reports emerged suggesting the Saudi Arabian Football Federation may have agreed to appoint Spanish coach Roberto Martínez. These rumors led to social media backlash from fans advocating for Donis to remain in his position as the team prepares to host the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-06: Saudi Arabia wins Gulf Cup amid rumors of coaching change

Saudi Arabia won the 27th Gulf Cup under coach Georgios Donis, but reports of a potential deal with Roberto Martínez have sparked fan outrage.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/saudi-arabia-wins-gulf-cup-amid-rumors-of-coaching-change

### 2026-09-23: Saudi Arabia coach Donis prepares for Oman clash

Saudi Arabia coach Georgios Donis prepares for the Khaleeji 27 match against Oman, addressing player absences and the need for better clinical finishing following a win over Kuwait.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/saudi-arabia-coach-donis-prepares-for-oman-clash

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Cite as: Saudi Arabia Gulf Cup campaign and coaching status. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/saudi-arabia-gulf-cup-campaign-and-coaching-status