Morocco’s national football team is preparing for a major transition after head coach Walid Regragui officially stepped down from his role only months before the start of the FIFA World Cup. The announcement came during a press conference in Rabat where Regragui explained that the team needed a fresh direction and renewed energy as it prepares for one of the most important tournaments in international football. His departure ends weeks of speculation surrounding his future and introduces uncertainty for a squad that has become one of Africa’s strongest football powers in recent years.
Regragui leaves behind a remarkable record with Morocco that includes one of the most historic achievements in African football. Under his leadership the national team reached the semi finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, becoming the first African and Arab nation to advance that far in the tournament. The achievement elevated Morocco’s global reputation and established the team as a serious contender in international competitions. Regragui’s tenure also produced consistent performances in qualification campaigns and continental tournaments, helping Morocco maintain a strong position in global football rankings.
Despite those accomplishments, pressure began to grow following Morocco’s defeat in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year. The team had entered the tournament with high expectations, especially since Morocco hosted the competition and supporters hoped it would end a long wait for continental glory. The loss in the final against Senegal triggered widespread debate among fans and media, with some questioning tactical decisions and the team’s ability to handle high pressure matches despite their overall success.
Regragui acknowledged that the intense schedule and constant expectations had taken a personal toll on him after nearly four years leading the national team. He explained that stepping aside was not a sudden decision but rather a choice he had been considering since the Africa Cup of Nations final. According to the coach, he initially intended to resign earlier but was encouraged by football officials to remain temporarily until a suitable replacement could be identified. Ultimately he concluded that Morocco would benefit from a new coaching perspective as the World Cup approaches.
The Moroccan Football Federation confirmed that Mohamed Ouahbi will take over the national team role as preparations continue for the global tournament. Ouahbi arrives with a growing reputation after guiding Morocco’s under twenty side to victory at the youth World Cup held in Chile last year. His success with the country’s youth program demonstrated his ability to develop talented players and manage high pressure international matches. Federation officials believe his familiarity with emerging Moroccan talent will help create continuity as the senior squad prepares for the World Cup challenge.
During his time in charge Regragui delivered impressive statistics that highlighted Morocco’s rise as a consistent football force. The team recorded thirty six victories in forty nine matches during his tenure while suffering only five defeats. Morocco also achieved a remarkable run of nineteen consecutive wins between mid 2024 and late 2025, setting a new world record for successive international victories. These results strengthened the team’s confidence and reinforced its reputation as one of the most competitive national sides outside Europe and South America.
Morocco’s players and supporters have responded emotionally to the coach’s departure. National team captain Achraf Hakimi publicly thanked Regragui for his leadership and influence, noting that the coach inspired both the squad and millions of fans across the country. Hakimi highlighted the unity and ambition that developed within the team during Regragui’s leadership, describing the period as one that helped transform Moroccan football on the global stage.
Attention now shifts to Morocco’s immediate preparations for the World Cup where the team will compete in Group C against Brazil, Scotland and Haiti. Two international friendly matches scheduled later this month against Ecuador and Paraguay will provide the first opportunity for the new coaching staff to evaluate the squad and establish tactical plans for the tournament.
