Hakimi pays tribute to departing Morocco national team coach Walid Regragui

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has paid tribute to departing head coach Walid Regragui after the Royal Moroccan Football Federation confirmed a change in leadership just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The federation has appointed Mohamed Ouahbi as the new coach of the Atlas Lions following Regragui’s departure, bringing an end to a tenure that included some of the most memorable moments in Moroccan football history.

Regragui, who took charge in 2022, oversaw Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where they became the first African nation to reach the last four of the tournament. The Atlas Lions eventually lost to France, who went on to finish as runners-up.

Under his leadership, Morocco also enjoyed a strong campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, reaching the final on home soil. However, the hosts were narrowly defeated by the Senegal national football team in a dramatic encounter.

The final proved decisive, with Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missing a late penalty after a controversial decision, allowing Senegal to secure the title.

Despite those achievements, Morocco’s federation opted to make a coaching change with the World Cup approaching.

Regragui said the decision was taken to allow the national team to evolve ahead of the global tournament.

“The team needs a fresh face, a different energy, and a new perspective with a new coach,” he said.

“I think the team needs a new lease of life before the World Cup, a new vision to continue progressing. My decision to leave is part of this team’s evolution.”

Hakimi leads tributes

Following the announcement, Hakimi — one of Morocco’s most influential players — expressed his gratitude to the departing coach.

“Walid Regragui, thank you for the exceptional work you accomplished at the helm of the Moroccan national team,” the defender wrote on social media.

“Your leadership, passion and vision inspired not only the players, but also an entire nation and millions of fans around the world.”

Hakimi credited Regragui with strengthening team unity and believing in Moroccan talent during his time in charge.

“Thank you for believing in Moroccan talent, for strengthening the team spirit, and for showing that with discipline and hard work, great things can be achieved,” he added.

“You have left an unforgettable mark on the history of Moroccan football. Thank you for making us dream and for carrying our colours with such pride. Legend.”

Ouahbi steps up

Morocco have now turned to Ouahbi, who previously worked with the country’s under-23 side, to guide the national team into the next phase.

His appointment comes at a crucial moment as the Atlas Lions prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Morocco have been drawn in Group C and will face the Brazil national football team, Scotland national football team, and Haiti national football team.

For Ouahbi, the challenge will be to maintain the momentum built under Regragui while preparing the team to compete against some of the world’s strongest sides.

The coaching change marks the beginning of a new chapter for Moroccan football — one shaped by the legacy of Regragui’s achievements and the expectations surrounding the Atlas Lions as they return to the global stage.