BY Issah Olegor
In a surprising development ahead of the 2026 global football showpiece, Walid Regragui has stepped down as head coach of the Morocco national football team, bringing an end to a tenure that delivered historic success for Moroccan and African football.
Regragui confirmed his resignation during a late-night press conference on Thursday, explaining that his decision was driven by the belief that the national team required renewed direction and energy just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off in June. The announcement ended weeks of speculation surrounding his future with the Atlas Lions.
“I sincerely believe the team needs a new vision to be able to progress. My decision to leave is for the better of the team,” Regragui said, acknowledging that the intense demands of international management had left him physically and mentally exhausted after nearly four years in charge.
Historic Era
Regragui’s tenure will be remembered as one of the most successful in Moroccan football history. Appointed in September 2022, he quickly transformed the team into a formidable force on the global stage.
Under his leadership, Morocco achieved a historic milestone at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals of the tournament.
His period in charge also saw Morocco establish remarkable consistency, recording 36 wins in 49 matches, alongside eight draws and only five defeats. During that stretch, the Atlas Lions also set a new world record for the longest winning run by a national team, claiming 19 consecutive victories between June 2024 and December 2025.
Despite those achievements, Regragui faced growing criticism from some sections of supporters, particularly following Morocco’s defeat to Senegal national football team in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year. The tournament was hosted by Morocco, and expectations had been high that the country would finally end its 50-year wait for a continental title.
Sources close to the Moroccan camp indicate that Regragui had already considered stepping down shortly after that loss but was persuaded by the federation to delay his departure until a suitable replacement could be identified.
Federation Turns to Ouahbi
At the same press conference announcing Regragui’s departure, Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, confirmed that Mohamed Ouahbi will take over the national team.
Ouahbi, a Belgian-born coach, gained prominence after leading Morocco to victory at the FIFA U‑20 World Cup 2025 in Chile last year. His appointment signals the federation’s intention to inject fresh tactical ideas and youthful energy into the squad ahead of the World Cup.
World Cup Preparations
Morocco’s preparations for the upcoming tournament remain on schedule despite the coaching change. The team is expected to play two international friendlies later this month as part of its final build-up to the World Cup. Morocco will face Ecuador national football team in Madrid on March 27 before taking on Paraguay national football team in Lens, France, four days later.
At the tournament itself, Morocco will compete in Group C, where they are set to face Brazil national football team, Scotland national football team, and Haiti national football team.
Emotional Tributes
Following the announcement, Moroccan captain Achraf Hakimi paid tribute to his former coach in a message posted on social media, thanking Regragui for his leadership and impact on the team.
“Thank you for the incredible work you did leading the Moroccan national team,” Hakimi wrote. “Your leadership, passion and vision inspired not only the players but also an entire country and millions of fans around the world.”
