Softfootball can confirm that Walid Regragui has left his role as head coach of Morocco with immediate effect, marking a major managerial shake-up for the national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, the decision was made in the build-up to the global tournament, with Moroccan Football Federation officials now preparing to appoint a successor.
Romano said:
Walid Regragui leaves Morocco head coach role with immediate effect. Decision made ahead of the World Cup with Mohamed Ouahbi favorite to take over. Official announcement to follow in a press conference tonight, as @Santi_J_FM reported.
Mohamed Ouahbi has emerged as the leading candidate to take over the position, although a formal announcement is expected during a press conference scheduled for later tonight.
Regragui’s departure comes at a sensitive moment for Moroccan football. With the World Cup fast approaching, the team now faces a sudden transition period as preparations intensify for the biggest tournament in international football. The federation will be keen to ensure stability within the squad and maintain the progress achieved in recent years.
During his tenure, Regragui played a key role in strengthening Morocco’s reputation on the global stage, guiding the team through competitive international campaigns and helping maintain their status as one of Africa’s strongest footballing nations. His exit now places added responsibility on the federation to appoint a replacement capable of continuing that trajectory.
Mohamed Ouahbi, who is widely regarded within Moroccan football circles for his tactical understanding and developmental work, is currently considered the frontrunner to assume the role.
If confirmed, his appointment would signal a new chapter for the national team as they attempt to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming World Cup.
Still on managerial changes across world football, Brazilian giants Flamengo recently parted ways with head coach Filipe Luís in one of the most surprising decisions of the year, dismissing the former defender just hours after an emphatic 8–0 victory over Madureira in the Campeonato Carioca semi-finals.
Attention will now turn to how quickly the Moroccan Football Federation finalizes its decision and how effectively the new coaching staff can settle into the role before the tournament begins.
In other news, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha has dismissed speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid. The Portuguese international insisted that leaving PSG at this stage of his career would make little sense, reaffirming his commitment to the Ligue 1 champions after establishing himself as one of their most influential midfielders since joining from FC Porto in 2022.
