Walid Regragui steps down as Morocco coach ahead of World Cup

Morocco coach Walid Regragui stepped down Thursday, just three months before the upcoming World Cup finals, ending weeks of speculation about his future and saying the national team needed a fresh approach.

The Moroccan Football Federation confirmed the decision during a late-night press conference, where Regragui said the team required “a new vision and different energy” to continue progressing.

“I sincerely believe the team needs a new vision to be able to progress,” Regragui said. “My decision to leave is for the better of the team.”

The 50-year-old coach guided Morocco to one of the most remarkable achievements in international football when the team reached the World Cup semifinals in Qatar in 2022, becoming the first African nation to reach that stage.

Despite his success, Regragui said the demands of the job had taken a toll.

He had considered resigning earlier this year after Morocco lost the Africa Cup of Nations final to Senegal in January in a tournament the country hosted. Morocco had hoped to end a 50-year wait for a continental title.

Mohamed Ouahbi appointed as new national team coach

Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa announced that Mohamed Ouahbi will take over as head coach.

Ouahbi, who was born in Belgium, gained recognition for his work with Morocco’s youth teams. He led the country’s under-20 side to victory at the Under-20 World Cup in Chile last year.

The federation believes his familiarity with Morocco’s emerging talent and modern tactical approach will help maintain stability ahead of the global tournament.

Morocco’s senior squad faces two friendly matches later this month as part of its final preparations for the World Cup. The Atlas Lions will play Ecuador in Madrid on March 27 before facing Paraguay in Lens, France, four days later.

At the World Cup, Morocco will compete in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti.

Regragui leaves behind historic record with Atlas Lions

Regragui departs with one of the most successful coaching records in Moroccan football history.

Since taking charge in September 2022, he oversaw 49 matches, winning 36, drawing eight and losing just five.

During his tenure, Morocco also recorded the best World Cup performance by an African nation and set a national team record for consecutive victories. The side won 19 straight matches between June 2024 and December 2024.

Still, the coach had faced increasing criticism from some supporters despite the impressive statistics.

Following the announcement, Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi praised Regragui in a message shared on social media.

“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.”

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