New Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi Emphasises merit-based selection

Mohamed Ouahbi has pledged to build on Morocco’s recent achievements and select players based on performance rather than age as he begins his tenure as head coach of the national team.

Speaking during his official presentation on Thursday evening, the new manager said his priority would be to continue the progress already made by the team while preparing it for future international competitions.

“I am driven by a strong determination to continue the work already begun in order to capitalize on the achievements and allow the Moroccan national team to continue to shine,” Ouahbi stressed during a press conference dedicated to his presentation, held at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmoura.

Ouahbi said Morocco already possesses a solid foundation capable of competing with some of the strongest national teams in the world.

He believes that base could help the country remain competitive at major tournaments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As preparations begin for upcoming fixtures, the coach explained that squad selections would not be determined by age or by the league in which players compete. Instead, he said performances on the pitch would be the deciding factor.

According to Ouahbi, the objective is to assemble the most competitive group possible in order to form what he described as a “strong and balanced” national team.

He also emphasised the responsibility he feels in the role, noting that “his contract with Morocco is above all a moral one”.

During the presentation, Ouahbi also introduced his first assistant, João Sacramento. He added that the rest of the technical staff would be announced at a later stage.

The president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Fouzi Lekjaa, said the decision to appoint Ouahbi came after careful consideration.

“We have prioritized continuity,” Lekjaa noted, adding that the federation’s confidence in Moroccan technical leadership is beginning to show positive results.

He also highlighted the role played by the federation’s Technical Directorate in the development and recent successes of Moroccan football, describing it as a key factor behind the national team’s progress in recent years.