Spanish football icon and former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has reportedly been proposed to the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) as a potential replacement for Walid Regragui, following the national team’s disappointing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final loss.
Sources indicate that Alonso’s name has surfaced in discussions as the federation evaluates options for the next phase of Morocco’s preparation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Regragui’s uncertain future
Regragui’s tenure has been increasingly scrutinized after Morocco fell short against Senegal in the AFCON 2025 final.
Media reports suggest the coach could either resign voluntarily or face dismissal by the federation, leaving his participation in the upcoming World Cup uncertain.
During his time in charge since August 2022, Regragui led Morocco to a historic fourth-place finish at the 2022 World Cup, winning 36 out of 49 matches, but has yet to secure an official title with the senior team.
Federation’s preferences
Despite Alonso being on the radar, FRMF president Fouzi Lekjaa appears hesitant to appoint the Spanish coach. According to reports, the federation may prioritize a Moroccan manager or a coach with a higher international profile than Alonso.
The reasoning reflects a desire to blend local knowledge with proven managerial experience for the national team’s continued development.
Local options remain strong
Tarik Sektioui, the current Morocco U-23 coach, is reportedly the leading local candidate should Regragui depart. Sektioui has an impressive record, having guided Morocco’s local players to the 2025 African Nations Championship title and the U-23 team to victory at the 2025 Arab Cup in Qatar. Youssef Hadji is expected to serve as his assistant if he assumes the senior coaching role.
Discussions over Alonso’s candidacy reflect both the ambition and caution of Morocco’s football leadership. With the World Cup looming in 2026, the federation faces a big decision that could shape the future of the Atlas Lions on the global stage.
