Moroccan football federation faces critical decision on Regragui’s future

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) finds itself at a pivotal juncture as internal debates intensify over the future of national team head coach Walid Regragui. With the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on the horizon, opinions are sharply divided: one faction advocates for Regragui’s immediate dismissal, while another argues he should retain his position until after the tournament.

Despite the disagreement regarding the timing of Regragui’s potential exit, there is a growing consensus that his tenure with the Atlas Lions is nearing its conclusion. Sources within Moroccan football indicate that the FRMF is poised to part ways with Regragui soon, raising questions about the timing and method of this decision.

Jose Riveiro emerges as leading candidate

Amidst ongoing speculation, Jose Riveiro, head coach of South African club Orlando Pirates, has emerged as the frontrunner to succeed Regragui. Reports suggest that the FRMF has expressed interest in Riveiro, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the current season. His connection to Morocco—given its geographical proximity to Spain—adds an appealing dimension to the prospect for the Spanish tactician.

Riveiro's ability to manage a national team with a more flexible schedule compared to club football makes this opportunity particularly attractive.

Other potential successors

In addition to Riveiro, PSG coach Luis Enrique is also considered a candidate for the role. However, with his team performing well in both the French league and UEFA Champions League, Enrique's departure appears unlikely.

Moroccan coaching talent is also being considered, with names like Hussein Ammouta, coach of Emirati club Al Jazira, and Tarik Sektioui, a former international and current Morocco U-23 coach, surfacing as viable options. Sektioui’s recent success, especially with the youth team at the Olympics, has made him a popular figure among fans and officials alike.

The debate over timing

The FRMF's delay in announcing Regragui's departure is attributed to strategic considerations. Supporters of Regragui argue that a sudden coaching change could disrupt the team's cohesion just before a major tournament. Conversely, advocates for immediate change contend that a new leadership could provide the necessary boost for Morocco to achieve the continental glory that has eluded the nation for decades.

As the FRMF navigates this critical decision, the choice of the next head coach will be crucial for Morocco's aspirations to build on the successes of the 2022 World Cup and to solidify its status as a formidable footballing nation.