Speculation is mounting over the future of Walid Regragui, following reports that he could make a surprise return to manage the Morocco national football team.
The uncertainty comes after a dramatic turn of events in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where Morocco were ultimately awarded the title following a decision by the Confederation of African Football.
Resignation after initial final defeat
Regragui had previously stepped down from his role after Morocco lost the tournament final to the Senegal national football team by a single goal.
The defeat marked a disappointing end to what had been described as a historic period for Moroccan football under his leadership. Among the highlights of his tenure was guiding the team to a fourth-place finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, making them the first Arab and African nation to reach that stage.
However, the loss in the Africa Cup of Nations final appeared to weigh heavily on the coach, who had been aiming to secure Morocco’s first continental title in five decades.
Title reversal sparks new debate
The situation shifted significantly after CAF ruled to strip Senegal of the 2025 title and award it to Morocco, effectively changing the outcome of the tournament weeks after the final had been played.
This decision has reignited debate about Regragui’s tenure, with some suggesting that the revised outcome means he ultimately achieved one of his key objectives with the national side.
According to a report by the Spanish publication Sport, the possibility of a return cannot be ruled out.
Reports suggest potential comeback
In its analysis titled “What will happen now with Walid Regragui?”, the newspaper raised the prospect of a second unexpected development following Morocco’s coronation as champions.
“After the controversial Africa Cup of Nations final, the Confederation of African Football awarded the title to Morocco and stripped Senegal of the tournament two months after the final match. Now we may be on the verge of a second surprise after Morocco was crowned champion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.”
The report continued: “This surprise is the return of Regragui to coach the Moroccan national team, in a move that paves the way for his appearance with the Atlas Lions in the 2026 World Cup,”
Such a scenario, however, remains uncertain. The same report noted that the idea may face obstacles, particularly following the appointment of Mohamed Wahbi as the team’s new head coach.
A record of success
Regragui, 50, was appointed as head coach on August 31, 2022, and oversaw a period of notable success with the national team.
During his tenure, he managed 49 matches, recording 37 victories, eight draws and only four defeats. His leadership was widely credited with elevating Morocco’s standing on the global stage.
He officially left his position on March 5, bringing an end to his time in charge, at least for now.
A Future Yet to Be Decided
While no official confirmation has been made regarding a potential return, the developments surrounding Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations title have added a new dimension to the discussion.
For now, Regragui’s future remains uncertain, with questions lingering over whether he could once again take charge of the Atlas Lions as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
The coming days may determine whether this speculation becomes reality or remains one of the many twists in an already dramatic chapter of Moroccan football.
