Former Morocco star Bouchaib El Moubarki backs Atlas Lions as genuine 2026 World Cup contenders

Former Morocco international Bouchaib El Moubarki believes the Atlas Lions have what it takes to challenge for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title following the team’s remarkable rise on the global stage in recent years.

El Moubarki stated that Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar proved that the North African side belongs among football’s elite nations and should now be viewed as a realistic contender for the next global tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

In an interview, the former Moroccan player insisted that the success achieved in Qatar was not accidental, but rather the outcome of years of planning and development within Moroccan football.

According to El Moubarki, the foundations for Morocco’s breakthrough were built through extensive work at youth level, with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation investing heavily in player development and long-term technical projects.

He stressed that several countries have since looked to Morocco’s model as an example to follow in terms of training structures and football development strategies.

“Eliminating major teams and reaching the semi-finals was not a coincidence,” El Moubarki explained, highlighting the steady progress made by Moroccan football over recent years.

While traditional World Cup favourites such as Brazil, Argentina, Germany, and Spain continue to dominate most predictions for the 2026 tournament, El Moubarki believes Morocco has earned its place among the nations capable of competing for the biggest prize in world football.

He pointed to growing international recognition and positive media coverage surrounding the Atlas Lions as further proof that Morocco is now considered one of the most respected national teams globally.

The former international added that the current Moroccan squad possesses the quality, confidence, and mentality required to compete against the strongest sides in the world.

According to El Moubarki, the team no longer fears any opponent and has developed the belief needed to challenge football’s traditional powers on the biggest stage.

He also praised the impact of Al Ain forward Soufiane Rahimi, insisting the attacker deserves a place in the Moroccan national team due to his outstanding performances at club level.

El Moubarki noted that Rahimi has played a decisive role in helping Al Ain secure important titles and believes his inclusion would provide additional attacking strength for the Atlas Lions ahead of future competitions.

The former Moroccan player further commended the development of the UAE Pro League, describing it as one of the strongest leagues in the Arab world because of its increasing competitiveness and the high level shown by Moroccan players competing there.

Speaking about the UAE national team, El Moubarki acknowledged that the Emirati side delivered encouraging performances during the recent World Cup qualifiers but fell short due to small details and a lack of fortune in key moments.

He emphasized that technical stability remains essential for long-term success, adding that national teams need time and continuity to build competitive squads capable of qualifying consistently for major tournaments.

El Moubarki also shared his thoughts on the future of the Moroccan national team coaching position, particularly regarding the possibility of Mohamed Wahbi eventually succeeding current head coach Walid Regragui.

He explained that Wahbi has accumulated valuable experience working with Morocco’s youth national teams and possesses a strong understanding of the country’s football culture and player development system.

For El Moubarki, appointing another Moroccan coach in the future would align with the continuity and long-term vision adopted by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation in recent years.