Internal cracks forcing Walid Regragui to resign as Atlas Lions coach?

Reports are mounting that Walid Regragui, head coach of the Moroccan national team, is on the verge of stepping down, weeks after Morocco’s loss in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in January.

Multiple Moroccan media outlets indicate that Regragui’s departure is no longer mere speculation. Sources suggest that a combination of internal tensions and disagreements with the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has prompted the coach to reconsider his position ahead of preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

According to insiders, the team’s failure to clinch the Africa Cup of Nations title sparked criticism of Regragui’s player selections, exposing underlying cracks within the federation. “Over time, discussions evolved into a quiet administrative dispute. The issues go beyond results and involve conflicts over authority,” one source explained.

Regragui reportedly sought full autonomy over squad selection, training programs, and friendly matches. However, FRMF officials favored more oversight, particularly regarding the inclusion of emerging talents and European-based players. The resulting tension reportedly led to a loss of confidence and a perception that the coach no longer had complete control over key decisions.

Indicators of the strained relationship have already surfaced, with Regragui reportedly bypassed in preparing the next national team roster—a task instead assigned to Fathi Jamal. Internal discussions have also hinted at a transitional phase under Mohamed Wahbi, coach of Morocco’s youth national team.

“Sources suggest that Regragui preferred to step down voluntarily rather than enter into a public confrontation or remain in an environment that could affect player focus ahead of the World Cup,” the report added.

Morocco is set to compete in Group C at the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, facing Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.