Wydad AC turns to Moroccan coach Mohamed Benchrifa for revival

Wydad Athletic Club have made a swift managerial change, appointing Moroccan tactician Mohamed Benchrifa as head coach following the dismissal of Frenchman Patrice Carteron after a disappointing spell in charge.

Africasoccer.com has learnt that Wydad AC president Hicham Ait Menna has reached an agreement with Benchrifa to take over the club effective immediately. The move signals an urgent attempt by the club’s hierarchy to steady the ship amid growing unrest.

Benchrifa arrives with a familiar and locally grounded technical team, including Hamouda Benchrifa as head coach, Youssef Achami as assistant coach, Tariq Jarmouni as goalkeeping coach, and Idriss Wajou as fitness coach. The structure reflects a deliberate shift toward a staff well-versed in the club’s internal dynamics and culture.

Carteron’s departure comes after a short but underwhelming tenure. Brought in to replace Mohamed Amine Benhachem following the team’s elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup, the former coach failed to inspire a turnaround. Under his leadership, Wydad managed just two draws and suffered three defeats in five matches, leaving fans frustrated by the lack of progress.

The managerial shake-up unfolds against the backdrop of rising tension within the club. Supporters have voiced strong dissatisfaction with the leadership of Ait Menna, criticizing both administrative decisions and the team’s on-field struggles. The unrest has created a charged atmosphere, increasing the urgency for immediate results.

Benchrifa now faces a daunting task: restoring confidence in a side struggling for form while also calming a restless fan base. With expectations high and patience wearing thin, his tenure begins under intense scrutiny, as Wydad seek a quick revival to salvage their season.