Walid Regragui: Uncertainty Surrounds Morocco Manager Following AFCON Final Defeat
RABAT, 06 February 2026 – The future of Walid Regragui as the head coach of the Moroccan national team remains shrouded in mystery following reports that the 50-year-old tactician has submitted his resignation. The development comes in the wake of a narrow 1-0 extra-time defeat to Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final, a result that has sparked intense debate across the Kingdom.
Resignation Reports and Federation Meetings
According to reports from Foot Mercato and local Moroccan outlets, Regragui offered to step down shortly after the final whistle in the AFCON tournament. The manager, who famously led Morocco to the World Cup semi-finals in 2022, is said to be “exhausted” by recent criticism despite being named the best coach of the tournament. However, his departure is not yet official. A decisive meeting is expected between Regragui and Fouzi Lekjaa, the President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), to determine if he will lead the squad into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While some factions within the FRMF advocate for continuity and stability, others have pointed to tactical concerns, including the handling of the final where a 17-minute delay preceded a crucial penalty miss by Brahim Díaz. Regragui himself has remained professional, recently returning to work to oversee preliminary World Cup preparations while the federation deliberates on his status.
Walid Regragui: Managerial Profile and Career Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Walid Regragui |
| Date of Birth | 23 September 1975 |
| Place of Birth | Corbeil-Essonnes, France |
| Appointed (Morocco) | 31 August 2022 |
| Preferred Formation | 4-2-3-1 |
| Major Honours | CAF Champions League (2021-22), Botola Pro |
The Road to the 2026 World Cup
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup only five months away, the timing of this potential coaching change is critical. Regragui has built a deep understanding of the current squad, yet the pressure of the “host nation” status during the recent AFCON has taken a visible toll. If Regragui departs, Tarik Sektioui has been mentioned as a potential internal successor, though many supporters still hope the “hero of Qatar” will stay to finish the cycle he started in 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Walid Regragui officially left the Morocco national team?
As of 06 February 2026, his resignation has been reported by several media outlets but has not been formally accepted or announced by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). A meeting with President Fouzi Lekjaa will finalise the decision.
What was the result of the AFCON 2025 final?
Morocco finished as runners-up after losing 1-0 to Senegal after extra time. Despite the loss, Regragui was recognised as the coach of the tournament.
Where was Walid Regragui born?
Regragui was born in Corbeil-Essonnes, France. He holds dual French and Moroccan citizenship but represented Morocco internationally as a player and manager.
Which club did Regragui manage before the Morocco national team?
Prior to taking the national team job in 2022, Regragui enjoyed significant success with Wydad Casablanca, where he won the CAF Champions League title in the 2021-22 season.