Mohamed Ouahbi has been appointed as the new manager of the Morocco national team, the Moroccan Football Federation confirmed on May 26, 2026. Ouahbi takes over from Walid Regragui following a challenging Africa Cup of Nations tournament hosted in Morocco.
The appointment marks a new era for Moroccan football, with Ouahbi tasked with building on the team’s recent successes, including a semi-final appearance at the previous World Cup. His first major competition will be the 2026 World Cup, where Morocco has been drawn into a group alongside Scotland, Haiti, and Brazil.
Ouahbi’s initial squad selection reflects a blend of experienced players and emerging talent. Yacine Bounou retains his place in goal, while defenders Nayef Aguerd, Achraf Hakimi, and Noussair Mazraoui are also included. A notable addition is Issa Diop, who has previously indicated a preference to represent France internationally.
The midfield will feature promising young players Samir El Mourabet of Strasbourg and Ayyoub Bouaddi of Lille, both of whom have been gaining recognition in French football. Upfront, Ouahbi has placed his trust in Brahim Díaz and Ayoub El Kaabi, known for their distinctive playing styles. Bouaddi’s inclusion is particularly noteworthy, representing a rising star within the Moroccan setup.
The Moroccan team will be aiming to progress from a challenging group stage, hoping to replicate or even surpass their semi-final run from the last World Cup. Ouahbi’s leadership and tactical approach will be crucial as they navigate a competitive tournament. The squad announcement signals a fresh start and a commitment to developing both established and emerging talents within Moroccan football.
