Former Morocco coach Walid Regragui emerges as contender for Feyenoord job

Former Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has reportedly emerged as a strong candidate for the vacant head coaching position at Dutch giants Feyenoord following the departure of Robin van Persie.

The Moroccan tactician is among several names being considered by the Eredivisie club as they begin the search for a new manager ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Feyenoord are looking to appoint a coach capable of maintaining the club’s competitive status both domestically and in Europe, and Regragui’s impressive managerial résumé has reportedly placed him high on the shortlist.

The 50-year-old has been without a coaching role since ending his spell with the Moroccan national team, where he enjoyed one of the most successful periods in the country’s football history.

Regragui earned widespread recognition after guiding Morocco to a historic semi-final finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The achievement made the Atlas Lions the first African and Arab nation to reach the last four of the global tournament, earning praise from across the football world.

His success with Morocco significantly enhanced his reputation, adding to an already impressive coaching record that includes league and continental triumphs at club level.

Feyenoord’s interest is believed to stem from the club’s desire to bring in a manager with strong leadership qualities, tactical flexibility and experience of handling pressure on the biggest stages. Regragui’s profile is understood to fit many of the attributes the Dutch side are seeking in their next head coach.

Should he be appointed, Regragui would take charge of one of the Netherlands’ most successful clubs and lead the Rotterdam-based outfit into next season’s UEFA Champions League campaign.

The prospect of coaching in the Netherlands would also represent a fresh challenge for the former defender, whose managerial career has largely been built in Morocco and the wider North African region.

Feyenoord are expected to carefully evaluate all available options before making a final decision, but Regragui’s name has already generated considerable interest among supporters due to his achievements with Morocco and his reputation as one of Africa’s leading coaches.

For the Moroccan manager, the opportunity could provide the perfect platform to relaunch his coaching career in European football while further enhancing his growing international profile.

As discussions continue behind the scenes, attention will now turn to whether Feyenoord decide to place their trust in the man who masterminded one of the greatest achievements in African football history.