Regragui Leaves Position as Morocco Names Ouahbi as New Coach

Departure of Coach

Morocco’s national football team has announced the departure of head coach Walid Regragui, who parted ways with the squad just under four months before the upcoming World Cup finals.

Regragui, age 50, made headlines by leading the Atlas Lions to a historic semi-final finish at the Qatar 2022 World Cup, marking the first time an African nation reached this stage in the tournament’s history.

New Appointment

The new head coach is 49-year-old Mohamed Ouahbi, who has transitioned from managing the under-23 team. His promotion mirrors Regragui’s own quick ascent when he took the reins in August 2022, just a few months prior to the last World Cup.

In a statement regarding the change, officials noted, “This is not merely a personnel shift. Our aim is to facilitate the ongoing growth of Moroccan football through a well-structured strategy.”

Recent Performances

Morocco’s performance also included reaching the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held on home soil, where they narrowly lost to Senegal 1-0 after extra time in a tense match that saw a controversial stoppage-time penalty missed by Brahim Diaz.

Regragui emphasized the need for a revitalizing change, stating, “The team requires a fresh face, new energy, and a different perspective that a new coach can bring. I believe it is essential for the team to gain a new lease on life before the World Cup, with a new vision to enhance our progress.”

The coaching decision follows increasing pressure for Morocco to secure its first continental title since 1976, with speculation surrounding the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s (FRMF) plans for a leadership change gaining momentum in recent weeks.

Team captain Achraf Hakimi took to social media reflecting on Regragui’s significant impact on Moroccan football history.

Upcoming World Cup Schedule

Morocco is set to kick off its World Cup journey against five-time champions Brazil on June 13. They will also compete in Group C against Scotland and Haiti as part of the tournament being jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

In preparation for the World Cup, the Atlas Lions are scheduled to play friendly matches against Ecuador and Paraguay in the upcoming international window.

Related topics

• Morocco
• Africa Sport
• Football