Morocco Coach Walid Regragui Nears Exit Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Walid Regragui is reportedly nearing an exit from his position as Morocco’s national team head coach just three months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup scheduled for North America. Negotiations are underway between the legendary tactician and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) as both parties work toward a mutual agreement to terminate their contractual relationship.

Regragui’s Situation and Timeline

The timing of Regragui’s potential departure creates significant disruption for Morocco’s World Cup preparations. The Atlas Lions will face Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti in Group C at the tournament, with ambitions of matching or improving upon their historic 2022 semi-final appearance. Recent reports indicate that Regragui has informed key players and senior squad figures that he will not lead them in the 2026 tournament.

Morocco’s World Cup Group and Stakes

The AFCON Context

Regragui’s potential departure follows Morocco’s disappointing Africa Cup of Nations campaign at home. The Atlas Lions reached the final but suffered defeat to Senegal, a result that intensified pressure on the coaching staff. Despite his historic achievement of guiding Morocco to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals—the first time any African or Arab nation achieved such a milestone—recent underperformance has shifted narrative focus.

The AFCON loss appears to have proven decisive in accelerating departure discussions. What was previously speculation has evolved into concrete negotiations with federation leadership actively pursuing separation terms.

Succession Planning Complications

The federation has initiated replacement search procedures despite Regragui still technically being in position. Spanish coach Xavi Hernández was approached as a potential successor but rejected the offer, citing insufficient time to build a comprehensive project before the World Cup. Xavi stated that less than four months was inadequate for establishing his tactical vision.

This rejection highlights a fundamental challenge facing the federation. Most foreign coaches share Xavi’s stance that pre-World Cup coaching changes create instability rather than improvement. The most likely successor is Tarik Sektioui, a Moroccan coach, aligning with the federation’s approach before the 2022 World Cup.

Reports and Denials

Conflicting reports have created confusion surrounding Regragui’s status. While multiple media outlets report his imminent departure and confirm that he has informed players of his intention not to lead them in 2026, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation released official statements denying the separation rumors.

The federation’s denial statement read: “The Royal Moroccan Football Federation denies the circulating news regarding its separation from coach Walid Regragui.” This contradiction between official federation denial and persistent media reports creates ambiguity regarding the actual status of negotiations.

Regragui’s Legacy and Impact

Despite potential departure, Regragui’s contribution to Moroccan football remains substantial. He elevated the performances of several elite players including Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Brahim Díaz, and Abde Ezzalzouli. His 2022 World Cup achievement—reaching the semi-finals—cemented his place in the nation’s football history.

The coach built a solid sporting project and established Morocco as one of the world’s best national teams. His departure creates a significant void just months before the tournament where Morocco enters as potential champions.

Saudi Arabia Interest

Reports suggest that Regragui maintains considerable interest from Saudi Pro League clubs. RMC Sport confirmed that several Saudi clubs have expressed interest in the Moroccan tactician, with his reputation in the Gulf region providing attractive options for his post-Morocco future.

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