Hakimi hails ´legend´ Regragui as Morocco make coaching change

Morocco have appointed Mohamed Ouahbi as their 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 World Cup in Qatar later that year, going down to eventual runners-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, though they 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 World Cup, Morocco have 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 World Cup, a new vision to continue progressing. My decision to leave is part of this team’s evolution.”

Walid Regragui, merci pour le travail exceptionnel que tu as accompli à la tête de la sélection marocaine. Ton leadership, ta passion et ta vision ont inspiré non seulement les joueurs, mais aussi tout un pays et des millions de supporters à travers le monde.

Merci d’avoir cru… pic.twitter.com/sZyUX12B7N

— Achraf Hakimi (@AchrafHakimi) March 5, 2026

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 the under-23 side to take charge.

Morocco will take on Brazil, Scotland and Haiti in their World Cup group this summer.