On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Al Raed, a Saudi Arabian football club, announced the termination of its contract with coach Odair Hellmann, marking the end of his tenure with the team. Hellmann, 48, had been at the helm since July 2024, but a string of poor results ultimately led to his dismissal. Under his leadership, Al Raed struggled significantly, finishing at the bottom of the Saudi League with only 18 points and managing just one victory in their last 15 matches.
Hellmann's departure comes just one day before a crucial semi-final match against Al Qadisiah in the Saudi King's Cup, a competition where he had led the team to unexpected success despite their league struggles. In total, he recorded nine wins, four draws, and 17 losses in 28 games during his time with Al Raed.
In an official statement, Al Raed expressed gratitude to Hellmann for his contributions, saying, "Thank you to coach Odair Hellmann for his work on the team." His dismissal was seen as necessary due to the club's poor performance, which included a current streak of four games without a win.
Odair Hellmann's coaching career has seen him navigate various teams in both Brazil and the Middle East. Before joining Al Raed, he had a notable stint with Al Riyadh, where he successfully saved the team from relegation. His previous experience in Brazil includes coaching roles at Internacional, Fluminense, and Santos, showcasing a diverse coaching background.
Following his exit from Al Raed, Hellmann is now free to explore new opportunities. Fluminense, a prominent Brazilian club, has emerged as a potential destination for the coach. The club's president, Mário Bittencourt, has long considered Hellmann a strong candidate for the position, especially after the recent dismissal of Mano Menezes following a disappointing start to the Brasileirão.
Hellmann's connection to Fluminense is significant; he previously managed the club for nearly a year in 2020. His familiarity with the Brazilian football landscape, combined with his recent experiences abroad, makes him an appealing option for Fluminense as they seek to revitalize their coaching staff.
The timing of Hellmann's availability aligns with Fluminense's urgent need for a new coach, especially after their recent struggles. The club's management is reportedly weighing several options, but the prospect of bringing back Hellmann could change the dynamics of their search.
As he moves forward in his career, Hellmann's track record in both the Saudi and Brazilian leagues will undoubtedly be scrutinized. His ability to lead teams in challenging situations, as demonstrated by his time at Al Raed and Al Riyadh, may serve him well as he seeks to secure a new position.
In summary, Odair Hellmann's departure from Al Raed marks a pivotal moment in his coaching career. With his proven experience and potential interest from Fluminense, the coming weeks could be crucial for his next steps in the world of football. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where his journey takes him next.
