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Shock Move: Morocco Eyes a Foreign Coach to Replace Rekragu

5 March 2026

Shock Move: Morocco Eyes a Foreign Coach to Replace Rekragu
Morocco's coaching saga continues as talks with a foreign boss surface

Background

In an unexpected move, French media raised doubts about appointing coach Mohamed Wahbi to lead the Moroccan national team, replacing Walid Regragui.

According to L'Équipe, the collaboration between Walid Regragui and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation has ended, with an official announcement expected soon.

Wahbi, who led Morocco to the Under-20 World Cup title last October, is being lined up as Regragui's successor, stepping into his first role as a head coach of a professional club with the World Cup in sight.

Separately, Fut Mercato reported that the Royal Moroccan Football Federation is close to signing Argentine coach Jorge Sampaoli to lead the Atlas Lions.

According to the French outlet, discussions with Sampaoli had advanced to a verbal agreement, but the deal ultimately did not materialize.

Officials had also considered other candidates in addition to Wahbi, with Sampaoli among the frontrunners, but no final agreement was reached.

Also read: A new twist in Morocco's coaching saga where the quest for stability continues amid ongoing negotiations.

In the end, the rumors keep pace with the transfer window—popcorn ready for the next development.

Punchline 1: If rumors paid rent, the federation would own a palace by now.

Punchline 2: In football, the only thing more certain than a transfer rumor is a press conference to deny it.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the potential replacement mentioned for Walid Regragui?

Mohamed Wahbi is highlighted as a possible successor, preparing for his first role as a head coach of a professional club.

Which foreign coach is reported to be in consideration besides Wahbi?

Argentine coach Jorge Sampaoli is also mentioned as a candidate, though no final deal was completed.

What did L'Équipe report about the federation and Regragui?

L'Équipe indicated that the collaboration between Regragui and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation had ended, with an official announcement expected soon.

Did the talks with Sampaoli end successfully?

No final agreement materialized despite reports of a verbal agreement at some point.