Walid Regragui has resigned as the head coach of Morocco’s national soccer team just months before the World Cup, a decision he announced during a press conference on Thursday night in Rabat.
His departure comes less than 100 days before the tournament, which is set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Following Regragui’s announcement, Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Moroccan soccer federation, revealed that Mohamed Ouahbi would succeed him as head coach.
Regragui’s Coaching Tenure
Regragui, 50, led Morocco to an unprecedented semifinal appearance at the 2022 World Cup, marking a historic achievement for both Africa and the Arab world. However, his tenure faced criticism after the team fell short in the Africa Cup of Nations, losing 1-0 to Senegal in the final held in January.
In his resignation, Regragui emphasized the need for a fresh perspective, stating, “The team needs a fresh face, a different energy, and a new perspective with a new coach. I think the team needs a new lease of life before the World Cup, a new vision to continue progressing.”
Mohamed Ouahbi Takes Charge
Mohamed Ouahbi, who previously led Morocco’s under-20 team to a Youth World Cup title, will take on the role of head coach for the first time at the senior level. The 49-year-old has also managed the under-23 team and has significant experience with youth squads at Belgian club Anderlecht.
Ouahbi remarked, “I’m not here to build, because the foundations are already in place. I’m here to keep performing,” and announced that João Sacramento would serve as his assistant coach, bringing experience from his time at Paris Saint-Germain and working under José Mourinho.
Rising Expectations and Challenges
Morocco has not secured a continental trophy since 1975, and Regragui faced scrutiny for a defensive style that did not meet the heightened expectations following the team’s World Cup success. Critics began calling for his dismissal after the disappointing performance in the Africa Cup held in Ivory Coast.
Regragui’s future became a topic of speculation after the Africa Cup, especially as media reports circulated about his possible resignation, prompting the federation to issue multiple denials.
Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi praised Regragui, calling him a “legend” and acknowledging his inspiring leadership, which he believes significantly impacted both players and fans alike.
Morocco’s Future Aspirations
As Morocco invests heavily in sports infrastructure to become a soccer powerhouse, the nation is also co-hosting the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. The country aims to stage the final at the Hassan II Stadium, which is set to be the largest soccer arena globally upon completion in 2028.
In preparation for the World Cup, Morocco will participate in warm-up matches against Ecuador and Paraguay on March 27 and March 31, respectively. The Atlas Lions have been drawn into Group C, alongside Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland.