The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) officially appointed Mohamed Ouahbi as the new head coach of the men’s national team on Thursday, following the shock resignation of Walid Regragui just 98 days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The leadership transition was confirmed during a live televised ceremony in Rabat, where federation president Fouzi Lekjaa paid tribute to Regragui’s historic tenure. Regragui, who became a national icon after leading Morocco to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, cited a need for "new energy" as the reason for his departure.
“The team needs a fresh face, a different energy, and a new perspective,” Regragui said during the broadcast. He noted that his decision was part of the squad's necessary evolution to continue progressing on the global stage.
Despite his legendary status, Regragui had faced mounting pressure following Morocco’s 1–0 loss to Senegal in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. While the federation initially denied rumours of his exit in February, the two parties ultimately agreed to terminate the contract three months before the tournament in North America.
Mohamed Ouahbi, 49, steps into the role with significant momentum. He recently guided Morocco’s Under-20 team to a historic FIFA U-20 World Cup title in Chile, a feat the FRMF described as a "strategic roadmap" for the senior team’s future. Ouahbi will be supported by a high-profile backroom staff, including Portuguese assistant João Sacramento.
Lekjaa emphasised that the appointment is designed to consolidate Morocco’s position among the world’s elite football nations. The federation stated the move aims to ensure "continuous development" as the country prepares for the 2026 tournament and its role as co-host for the 2030 World Cup.
Ouahbi’s first challenge begins immediately with friendlies against Ecuador and Paraguay later this month. Morocco are drawn into Group C for the World Cup, where they will open their campaign against Brazil on June 13 at MetLife Stadium.