Moroccan federation reportedly in advanced talks with Xavi to replace Walid Regragui

The Fouzi Lekjaa-led Moroccan Football Federation is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Spanish legend Xavi Hernandez to succeed Walid Regragui as head coach of the Morocco national football team.

The talks come in the aftermath of Morocco’s disappointing loss to Senegal in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, which has triggered a major rethink of the team’s technical direction.

According to multiple media sources, Regragui offered his resignation immediately after the continental defeat, prompting the federation to move quickly to secure a high-profile replacement capable of leading Morocco at the 2026 World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Xavi, available since leaving FC Barcelona in May 2024, has emerged as the top candidate in what is seen as an ambitious plan to rejuvenate Moroccan football.

A reunion of legends?

Reports suggest that the federation’s vision extends beyond a mere coaching change. Officials aim to reunite Xavi with Andres Iniesta, the iconic midfield partner who shared legendary successes with Xavi at Barcelona and Spain. Iniesta is reportedly close to joining Morocco’s technical team to help implement a unified playing philosophy across all age categories.

The project is designed to consolidate a distinct tactical identity and streamline the progression of talent from youth to senior teams.

Moroccan football authorities are reportedly seeking to merge the tactical sophistication of Spanish football with the natural technical ability and flair of Moroccan players, creating a sustainable model for long-term success.

Alternative options on the table

Sources indicate that the federation has prepared alternative options should negotiations with Xavi falter. Italian coach Stefano Pioli, formerly of AC Milan, is considered a strong candidate to bring defensive balance to the team, while Moroccan coach Tarik Sektioui – who led the Olympic team and achieved success in the African Nations Championship and Arab Cup – is also under consideration.

Despite these alternatives, Xavi remains the preferred choice, with federation officials emphasizing the need for a new collective playing style ahead of the World Cup.

The seriousness of the negotiations reflects Morocco’s determination to inject fresh tactical thinking into the team and elevate its competitiveness on the global stage.

Expectations and anticipation

Moroccan fans are eagerly awaiting an official announcement, with widespread anticipation about whether Fouzi Lekjaa will successfully secure Xavi as the new coach.

While Regragui’s contributions over the past years are widely respected, many in the football community believe that a fresh approach, led by a globally recognized tactician, could be key to overcoming the AFCON disappointment and presenting a stronger, more cohesive Morocco side at the 2026 World Cup.