Mohamed Ouahbi opens a new chapter with the Atlas Lions
A new era begins for the Atlas Lions. Mohamed Ouahbi (49) has been chosen to succeed Walid Regragui as head coach of the Moroccan national team.
The task ahead is a significant one. Ouahbi takes over from a coach who left a lasting mark on Moroccan football. Appointed in 2022, Regragui led Morocco to a historic semi-final at the FIFA World Cup 2022, a first for both an African and an Arab national team.
That remarkable campaign changed the perception of the Atlas Lions and created new expectations around a talented generation led by players such as Achraf Hakimi, Sofyan Amrabat and Yassine Bounou.
Since then, Morocco has established itself among the leading national teams on the international stage, reaching 8th place in the FIFA World Ranking.
The federation has opted for a profile that has worked away from the spotlight but commands deep respect in youth development circles. Born in Schaerbeek, Belgium, Mohamed Ouahbi built his career far from the glare of the media.
He notably made his name at the RSC Anderlecht academy, where he contributed to the development of several young talents. That work at grassroots level helped him build a strong reputation as both an educator and a tactician.
In recent years, he moved closer to the Moroccan federation, gradually gaining prominence within the youth national teams. His methodical approach and daily demands eventually convinced the federation’s leadership.
The high point of this journey came in 2025, when Ouahbi led Morocco’s U-20 side to a historic world title. The unprecedented success further strengthened his standing among Moroccan football officials.
Beyond the trophy, it was his ability to develop players and build a cohesive team that stood out. These qualities ultimately played a key role in the decision to entrust him with the senior national team today.
On the pitch, Ouahbi belongs to a generation of coaches who favour initiative. His teams look to press high, recover possession quickly and attack with speed.
Tactically, he often alternates between a 4-3-3 and a 3-4-3, with a constant desire to control space and impose tempo. It is a philosophy that could suit the technical and attacking qualities within Morocco’s talent pool.
However, the new head coach also emphasises another key element: the strength of the collective.
His appointment also reflects a broader strategy. The federation aims to strengthen the pathway between youth national teams and the senior side.
Ouahbi already knows several players who could gradually join the senior squad—an advantage in managing generational transition without disrupting the team’s balance.
His coaching staff is also expected to reflect that spirit of complementarity. Portuguese coach João Sacramento and former Moroccan international Youssouf Hadji could support him in this new chapter.
Time, however, will allow little room for adjustment. In just a few months, Morocco will compete at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
This time, the Atlas Lions will arrive with a different status. After their memorable run in 2022, they will no longer be viewed as outsiders.
In his first public remarks, the new head coach remained true to his approach - few promises, clear principles, and the three pillars he wants at the heart of his project of hard work, humility and patriotism.