Walid Regragui: Morocco Boss Reportedly Steps Down Weeks After AFCON 2025 Final Defeat

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has reportedly submitted his resignation just weeks after the Atlas Lions fell short in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, with the 2026 World Cup now only months away.

The 50-year-old tactician is widely considered one of Morocco’s most accomplished managers. He etched his name into history by guiding the national team to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the first time an African nation had reached that stage and later steering the side to the AFCON 2025 final.

Morocco came agonizingly close to lifting the continental title last month in a dramatic showdown against Senegal. The Atlas Lions were awarded a late penalty that could have sealed victory, but Brahim Diaz failed to convert his audacious Panenka attempt. The miss forced the match into extra time, where Pape Gueye struck the decisive goal to secure the trophy for Senegal and leave the hosts devastated.

In the aftermath of the defeat, pressure mounted from sections of supporters and pundits urging Regragui to step aside. Reports emerging on Friday indicate that he has formally presented his resignation to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, led by Fouzi Lekjaa.

Why is Regragui Leaving?

According to reports, Regragui feels drained by the intense demands of the role and believes it may be the right moment to move on, despite Morocco’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup. French outlet RMC Sport claims the federation has yet to officially accept his resignation, though the coach is said to be firm in his decision. Interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Qatar has also reportedly emerged.

Appointed in September 2022, just months before the Qatar World Cup, Regragui quickly transformed the national team into global contenders. Over 49 matches in charge, he recorded 36 victories, eight draws and only five defeats, a record that underscores his impact.

With uncertainty surrounding his future, Tarik Sektioui has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to take over. Sektioui recently enjoyed success with locally based players, winning the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2025 Arab Cup.

Morocco have been placed in Group C for the 2026 World Cup alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti. Their campaign is scheduled to begin on June 14 with a high-profile clash against five-time world champions Brazil.