Morocco ditches Regragui to make coaching change
Morocco has appointed Mohamed Ouahbi as its new head coach after parting company with long-time boss Walid Regragui, who Achraf Hakimi labelled a "legend".
Regragui took charge of Morocco in 2022. Under his guidance, the Atlas Lions reached the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later that year, going down to eventual runner-up France.
Morocco became the first African team to reach the last four of the tournament.
Morocco also reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, on home soil, but lost to Senegal in a dramatic final, in which Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz missed a controversially awarded penalty.
However, just three months prior to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Morocco has decided to make a change.
"The team needs a fresh face, a different energy, and a new perspective with a new coach," Regragui said.
"I think the team needs a new lease of life before the [FIFA] World Cup, a new vision to continue progressing. My decision to leave is part of this team's evolution."
Morocco's star man Hakimi posted his thanks to Regragui on social media.
Hakimi wrote: "Walid Regragui, thank you for the exceptional work you accomplished at the helm of the Moroccan national team.
"Your leadership, passion, and vision inspired not only the players, but also an entire nation and millions of fans around the world.
"Thank you for believing in Moroccan talent, for strengthening the team spirit, and for showing that with discipline, hard work, great things can be achieved.
"You have left an unforgettable mark on the history of Moroccan football. Thank you for making us dream and for carrying our colours with such pride. Legend."
Mohamed Ouahbi has stepped up from Morocco Under-23 to take charge.
Morocco will take on Brazil, Scotland and Haiti in its FIFA World Cup group.























