Regregui Steps Down Before World Cup

Morocco’s national football team has been thrown into unexpected uncertainty after head coach Walid Regragui officially resigned from his position on Thursday, only months before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His departure has sparked considerable discussion within the country’s football community, given his remarkable achievements with the national side in recent years.

Speculation regarding Regragui’s future had been circulating for several weeks. Ultimately, the 49-year-old coach decided to step down voluntarily, citing physical and mental fatigue after nearly four years at the helm. His tenure is widely regarded as one of the most successful periods in Moroccan football history.

Regragui rose to international prominence during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where he guided Morocco to a historic semi-final appearance. That achievement marked the furthest progression ever reached by an African nation in the tournament’s history, earning global admiration and transforming the Atlas Lions into one of the most respected teams in international football.

During his time in charge, Morocco produced an impressive record across all competitions. The team not only maintained strong performances in continental tournaments but also set a remarkable winning streak that became a national point of pride.

Morocco under Walid Regragui

One of the most notable milestones during his tenure was Morocco’s 19-match winning streak, a run that lasted from June 2024 until December of the same year. The sequence represented the longest winning run in the team’s history and underscored the tactical discipline and unity Regragui instilled in the squad.

Tributes quickly followed his announcement. Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi expressed his gratitude in a message shared on social media, praising the coach’s leadership and influence. Hakimi wrote that Regragui’s vision and passion inspired not only the players but also millions of supporters across Morocco and around the world.

The Moroccan Football Federation is expected to appoint a new manager soon, with Mohamed Wahbi emerging as the leading candidate. Wahbi gained recognition last year after guiding Morocco’s Under-20 team to victory in the youth World Cup held in Chile. His success at youth level has positioned him as a promising option to continue the national team’s progress.

Morocco are scheduled to play two international friendlies later this month as part of their World Cup preparations. They will face Ecuador in Madrid on 27 March before taking on Paraguay four days later in Lens, France.

At the 2026 World Cup, Morocco will compete in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti. Despite the sudden change in leadership, the team remains determined to build on its recent successes and continue its rise on the global stage.