Raja Casablanca part ways with sporting director Rogério Matias after Paco Jemez exit

Raja Casablanca have ended their contractual relationship with Portuguese sporting director Rogério Matias and his assistant by mutual agreement, marking another major shake-up in the Moroccan club’s leadership within a week.

The club confirmed the decision on Tuesday following a meeting with its sporting management, bringing Matias’ short spell in Casablanca to an end.

In an official statement, Raja said both parties had agreed to terminate their contracts amicably while reaffirming their commitment to achieving the club’s sporting objectives and meeting supporters’ expectations.

Matias’ departure comes just one day after the Moroccan giants announced their decision to part ways with Spanish head coach Paco Jemez following a disappointing start to the 2026-27 campaign.

Matias’ short spell at Raja comes to an end

The Portuguese official was appointed in July to oversee Raja’s sporting operations, with the responsibility of establishing a long-term strategy for recruitment, player development and technical management.

He arrived in Casablanca with experience from Portuguese football, having served as sporting director at Vitória Guimarães between 2022 and 2026.

His appointment was expected to strengthen Raja’s sporting structure and improve coordination between the club’s technical staff and management.

However, the team’s difficulties at the beginning of the 2026-27 season increased pressure on the sporting leadership, with supporters expressing concerns over recruitment decisions and performances.

Second major departure in a week

Matias’ exit follows the departure of Jemez, who was dismissed after Raja’s results, performances and overall development failed to meet the club’s expectations.

The Spanish coach’s final match in charge was Sunday’s 2-0 defeat against RS Berkane.

Raja have collected six points from their opening five Botola Pro matches, recording one victory, three draws and one defeat.

The successive departures of the head coach and sporting director represent a significant change in the club’s leadership as they attempt to address their difficult start to the season.

Jinani prepares to take interim charge

Meanwhile, Raja are preparing for Wednesday’s postponed Botola Pro fixture against AS FAR in Rabat.

Abdelkrim Jinani is expected to take temporary charge of the team as the Green Eagles seek to respond to their recent difficulties.

The club has yet to announce replacements for Matias and his assistant, leaving important positions in both the sporting and technical departments vacant.