Morocco Football Federation Issues Clarification on Coach Walid Regragui's Status
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has moved swiftly to address widespread speculation regarding the future of national team head coach Walid Regragui. In an official statement released on social media platform X, the federation categorically denied reports that Regragui had submitted his resignation in the aftermath of Morocco's heartbreaking defeat in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
Context of the Resignation Rumors
Reports began circulating weeks after Morocco's painful 1-0 loss to Senegal in the AFCON 2025 championship match, which took place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The match saw Morocco come agonizingly close to ending their 49-year wait for continental glory, only to fall short against a resilient Senegalese side.
The speculation intensified when French outlet Foot Mercato suggested that Regragui had informed the Moroccan FA of his intention to step down, citing that he was no longer in the right frame of mind to continue. The report further fueled rumors by mentioning that the federation was considering Barcelona legend Xavi as a potential replacement.
Regragui's Impressive Track Record
Since taking charge of the Atlas Lions in August 2022, Walid Regragui has established himself as one of Africa's most successful coaches. His tenure has been marked by remarkable achievements that have elevated Moroccan football on the global stage.
Key accomplishments include:- Guiding Morocco to a historic fourth-place finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, making them the first African nation to reach the semifinals
- Leading the team to the AFCON 2025 final, where they defeated Nigeria on penalties in the semifinals before falling to Senegal
- Recording an impressive overall record of 36 wins, 8 draws, and just 5 defeats in 49 matches
The 50-year-old former Wydad AC manager has earned global recognition for his tactical acumen and ability to maximize the potential of his squad.
Official Denial from Moroccan Football Authorities
The FRMF's statement was unequivocal in its rejection of the resignation rumors. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation categorically denies the information circulated by certain media regarding the alleged resignation of national team coach Walid Regragui from his position, the federation declared.
This official clarification emphasizes that Regragui remains firmly in charge of the national team as they prepare for upcoming challenges. The timing of this denial is particularly significant as Morocco faces a challenging Group C in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will compete against football powerhouses Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.
Potential Successor and Future Prospects
Despite the federation's denial of Regragui's resignation, reports had suggested that Tarik Sektioui was being lined up as a potential successor. Sektioui has built a strong reputation within Moroccan football circles, having guided the home-based national team to CHAN success and led the Atlas Lions to Arab Cup glory in 2025.
Looking ahead, if Regragui maintains his position as expected, he will lead the 1976 AFCON champions to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This tournament represents another opportunity for Morocco to build on their recent successes and establish themselves as consistent contenders on football's biggest stage.
The stability provided by Regragui's continued leadership could prove crucial as Morocco navigates a difficult World Cup group and seeks to build on their recent continental and global achievements.
