The truth about Walid Regragui's dismissal and Mohamed Wahbi's appointment as Morocco's coach
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has put an end to the controversy circulating in sports circles, categorically denying the news that has been circulating recently about the dismissal of national coach Walid Regragui and the appointment of Mohamed Wahbi in his place to lead the "Atlas Lions" in the next stage.
Details of the circulating rumors
In the past few hours, several press reports have circulated, most notably one published by the "Foot Mercato" network, claiming that Walid Regragui has decided to end his tenure with the Moroccan national team. These reports linked the decision to scenarios related to the results of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, indicating that the Royal Moroccan Football Federation is leaning towards appointing Mohamed Wahbi, the youth team coach, whom the reports described as having achieved remarkable success with the "Atlas Lions.".
Official response from the Royal University
In a swift response to preempt rumors that could destabilize the national team, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) issued an official statement on its website, declaring: "The FRMF denies the circulating reports regarding the appointment of a new national team coach." The Federation emphasized its commitment to complete transparency, noting that it is the sole authority responsible for announcing any updates concerning the Atlas Lions' technical staff in due course.
Historical context: Rakrak's achievements and artistic stability
The Moroccan Football Federation's continued support for Walid Regragui stems from the remarkable progress he has made with the Moroccan national team, particularly the historic achievement at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Regragui led Morocco to become the first Arab and African team to reach the semi-finals in World Cup history, finishing fourth globally after eliminating established footballing nations like Spain and Portugal. This achievement has cemented Regragui's status as a symbol of a long-term sporting project that the Kingdom is committed to maintaining to ensure continued development.
Future challenges: The bet on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 World Cup
This period is particularly sensitive given the major challenges facing Moroccan football. The Kingdom of Morocco is preparing to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals, and Moroccan fans are counting on home advantage and the stability of the coaching staff under Regragui to secure the continental title, which has eluded Morocco since 1976.
Moreover, the Moroccan national team has its sights set on the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The "Lions" aspire not only to qualify, but to repeat or surpass the achievement of the previous World Cup, which makes maintaining technical stability and staying away from rumors a top priority for the Royal Federation at the moment.
