Morocco's national team coach Walid Regragui has resigned, just three months before the team's World Cup campaign begins in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The 50-year-old Regragui confirmed his departure during a late-night news conference, stating the team needed a 'fresh face' and 'new perspective' to progress. His resignation follows criticism after Morocco failed to win the Africa Cup of Nations as hosts, losing the final to Senegal in January.

Regragui led Morocco to the 2022 World Cup semifinals, a historic first for Africa and the Arab world. Mohamed Ouahbi, a 49-year-old Belgian-Moroccan, will succeed him as coach. Ouahbi, previously in charge of the under-20s and under-23s, will be coaching a senior national team for the first time. Morocco has not won a continental trophy since 1975, and Regragui's defensive style also drew criticism. The Atlas Lions will face Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland in World Cup Group C.

Ouahbi will be assisted by Portuguese João Sacramento, a former PSG assistant. Morocco is investing heavily in sports infrastructure ahead of co-hosting the 2030 World Cup. Regragui's departure leaves the team searching for a new identity just weeks before World Cup warm-up matches against Ecuador and Paraguay.

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi praised Regragui as a 'legend' who inspired the nation. The resignation creates significant uncertainty for Morocco's World Cup preparations.