SPL Best Coach Award

To be eligible for this award, a coach must have overseen at least 40 percent of their team's total matches during the 2024-25 Roshn Saudi League.

The nominees

Laurent Blanc

In guiding Al Ittihad to the title, Laurent Blanc became the ninth coach in RSL history to deliver glory in his debut season in the competition.

The Frenchman was named RSL Coach of the Month in October, November and February as his Al Ittihad side marched unabated to win 25, draw five and lose just three matches. In doing so, they secured the top-flight trophy with three rounds to spare.

Michel

The former Real Madrid legend repaid Al Qadsiah’s faith after they retained him following their promotion last season from the First Division League.

Michel went on to build the 2024-25 RSL's best defensive side: they are the only team to concede less than 30 goals (29), while also sealing a top-four finish on their first campaign back.

Matthias Jaissle

Starting the season as the youngest manager in the league, the 37-year-old was named the RSL Coach of the Month in April.

Balancing league duties with continental success - he led Al Ahli to a historic first AFC Champions League Elite title - Jaissle’s side had the third-best defence and fourth-best attack in the division, highlighting the German’s ability to find the balance while delivering a high-octane brand of football.

Fatih Terim

One of two nominees on this list not to have started the season in his current role, the Turkish legend replaced Vitor Pereira at Al Shabab in December.

From there, Terim transformed the team into a thrilling attacking unit, with their scoring return jumping from 1.38 goals per match to 2.25. Indeed, Al Shabab failed to score in only one game out of 20 during his tenure. The 71-year-old was named RSL Coach of the Month in March.

Saad Al Shehri

The sole Saudi manager on the shortlist, Al Shehri replaced Steven Gerrard midway through the season and completely turned around Al Ettifaq's fortunes.

The transformation, highlighted by his decision to deploy captain Georginio Wijnaldum further upfield,  saw the Dammam side catapult from 13th to seventh in the RSL table under him. The form meant Al Shehri was deservedly rewarded with a contract extension.

Al Ettifaq's impressive Al Shehri flying flag for Saudi coaches in RSL

Dammam-born manager replaced Steven Gerrard at club