Morocco is seeking Xavi Hernández for the position of coach ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The Moroccan national team finds itself in turbulent waters as it approaches the 2026 World Cup, and the name of Xavi Hernandez is beginning to resonate strongly as a potential solution to lead the team. The national football federation, the FRMF, is facing a crucial dilemma: the future of current coach Walid Regragui is in jeopardy, and the pressure for a change in command is mounting.

In a scenario that promises to shake the foundations of African football, the FRMF has officially denied that Regragui has left his position, but rumors about the search for a new coach are becoming increasingly persistent. With Xavi, former midfielder for Barcelona and current coach, being one of the prominent names in discussions, the situation becomes even more intriguing. Sources close to the Spaniard indicate that he may be more inclined to accept a new challenge after the summer, rather than immediately taking over the national team.

Walid Regragui made history by leading Morocco to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, an unprecedented achievement for an African nation. However, the euphoria generated by this impressive campaign was quickly overshadowed by disappointing performances in subsequent competitions. The Moroccan national team was eliminated in the Round of 16 of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and, more recently, suffered a painful defeat in the 2025 final at home against Senegal after extra time.

The pragmatic playing style of Regragui has come under increasing criticism, with many questioning the coach’s ability to take the team to new heights, especially with the growing pressure for results. The FRMF cannot ignore the outcry from fans and the need to meet the expectations generated by significant investments in infrastructure and facilities in recent years.

With the Moroccan national team drawn alongside football giants such as Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti in the 2026 World Cup, the need for a solid strategy and inspiring leadership is more crucial than ever. The possibility of a coaching change before the tournament may be a risky maneuver, but it could also be the key to unlocking the team’s potential and avoiding a repeat of recent failures. The FRMF’s decision in the coming weeks will be decisive in shaping the future of football in Morocco and its ambition to shine on the international stage.