Mohamed Ouahbi plans pre-World Cup training camp before announcing final Morocco squad

Morocco’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are beginning to take shape, with head coach Mohamed Ouahbi and his technical team weighing up a structured training camp before announcing their final squad list.

Sources close to the setup indicate that the coaching staff are considering an intensive pre-tournament camp designed to refine tactical cohesion and assess fringe players before final selection decisions are made.

The approach reflects a measured build-up strategy aimed at ensuring only fully evaluated players make the cut for the global tournament.

As part of the preparation plan, a friendly match against Burundi has also been scheduled. The fixture is expected to serve as a key assessment opportunity, allowing Ouahbi and his staff to evaluate the performance of preselected players in a competitive setting before finalising the squad.

The methodology is not new for the Moroccan coach. Ouahbi previously applied a similar selection process during the U20 World Cup, where extended training camps and preparatory matches played a central role in shaping his final roster.

That system was widely regarded as effective in improving squad balance and readiness.

With expectations rising ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the coaching team appears intent on repeating a structured, data-driven and observation-heavy approach to player selection—prioritising form, tactical fit and adaptability over early reputation.

Further details on the timing and location of the training camp are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks, as Morocco continues to build toward another major international campaign.