Morocco's World Cup-winning coach Walid Regragui has resigned his position. The head of the Moroccan Football Federation, Fouzi Lekjaa, has appointed Mohamed Ouahbi as the new senior team manager. Ouahbi previously led Morocco's Under-20 team to a World Cup victory in 2025.
Regragui's departure marks the end of a remarkable era for Moroccan football. He guided the Atlas Lions to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. This was the first time an African nation reached that stage. The team's impressive performance elevated Morocco's global standing in the sport. As of April 2026, the team ranks 8th in the FIFA world rankings, their highest ever position.
Regragui instilled a tactical discipline and clear identity in the team. They played with intelligence and emotional control, moving away from the perceived chaos often associated with African football. He successfully integrated diaspora players, fostering a strong sense of national pride and collective purpose. The team's defensive solidity was a hallmark, conceding just two goals in seven matches during the 2022 World Cup. This defensive strength continued at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco conceded only one goal before the final and recorded five clean sheets in that tournament.
The decision to appoint Mohamed Ouahbi is a strategic calculation by the federation. Lekjaa believes Ouahbi's success with the U-20 team demonstrates his ability to maintain the team's established philosophy. Ouahbi's U-20 side was known for its pragmatic, vertically compact style. They emphasized midfield control and quick transitions. This aligns with the defensive structure Regragui built. Ouahbi's appointment is seen as a natural evolution, aiming to preserve the team's core strengths while potentially adding attacking dynamism.
This move represents a Gamble by the federation, with the 2026 World Cup less than three months away. Ouahbi now faces the immense pressure of leading the senior team at the highest level. His primary challenge will be to sustain Regragui's successful structure while introducing new energy. The success of this transition hinges on whether Morocco's rise was due to a sustainable system or primarily the leadership of one exceptional coach.
Morocco's investment in youth development is a key factor. Ouahbi's U-20 World Cup win in 2025 showcases this pipeline. The senior squad is one of the youngest in world football, with an average age of around 25.2 years. The federation has actively recruited dual-national talents from European academies. This strengthens the team's depth and future potential. Ouahbi has a solid foundation of experienced players and emerging talent.
Regardless of the 2026 World Cup outcome, Morocco has already set a new standard for African football. They have shifted perceptions from occasional brilliance to demonstrated tactical maturity and institutional planning. This achievement prompts other African nations to consider how to build and sustain similar success.