Mohamed Wahbi has revealed a series of significant decisions regarding Morocco national football team preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, outlining his tactical vision, addressing injury concerns and reaffirming the team’s ambitions ahead of the tournament.
The Moroccan coach made the remarks during an extensive interview with Moroccan sports broadcaster Al-Riyadiya, where he discussed several major issues surrounding the “Atlas Lions” as preparations intensify in Rabat.
With growing anticipation among supporters and media over Morocco’s final World Cup squad, Wahbi used the interview to clarify his approach to player management, tactical planning and the team’s overall objectives for the tournament.
One of the most notable revelations concerned the condition of defender Nayef Aguerd. Wahbi disclosed that the player had insisted on participating in the recent Africa Cup of Nations despite struggling with injuries throughout the season.
According to the Morocco coach, Aguerd pushed strongly to remain part of the national team setup before continuing to play for Olympique de Marseille after undergoing surgery.
Wahbi stressed that the defender’s return to action would depend entirely on his physical condition and readiness, but expressed confidence in the player’s ability to recover quickly due to his experience and quality.
The Morocco coach also delivered a strong indication regarding the goalkeeping hierarchy ahead of the World Cup by praising veteran goalkeeper Munir El Kajoui, commonly known as Munir El Mohammadi.
Wahbi highlighted the importance of psychological strength and composure in major tournaments, pointing to El Mohammadi’s memorable appearance against Belgium national football team during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
His comments suggested that mental resilience could play a decisive role in determining Morocco’s final three goalkeepers for the tournament, giving the experienced shot-stopper a potential advantage in the selection process.
Another major point from Wahbi’s interview centred on his tactical philosophy and long-term planning.
The coach stated clearly that his focus is entirely on competing immediately at the 2026 World Cup rather than building for future tournaments such as 2030. He explained that Morocco are currently using flexible tactical systems designed to adapt depending on the opposition, including approaches that allow the team to control matches even without dominating possession.
Wahbi said the objective is to create a more aggressive and effective side capable of challenging the strongest teams in world football.
The coach also outlined the extensive process being used to monitor potential squad members. According to Wahbi, around 55 players remain under continuous observation by the technical staff through weekly evaluations and performance reports.
He explained that dips in form at club level would not automatically eliminate players from contention, as the coaching staff intends to maintain communication and give players opportunities to regain form before final decisions are made.
Technology and data analysis are also playing a central role in Morocco’s preparations.
Wahbi revealed that the coaching team relies heavily on advanced digital analysis programs and detailed tactical statistics to monitor both Moroccan players and future opponents. A specialist performance analyst reportedly works daily to produce detailed reports covering player movement, tactical strengths and potential weaknesses.
The Moroccan coach believes this scientific approach has significantly improved the tactical preparation of the national side and reduced the risk of unexpected problems during matches.
Preparations have also extended beyond internal planning, with Morocco already studying potential World Cup opponents closely. Wahbi confirmed that observers and analysts had been sent to monitor matches involving the Scotland national football team and Haiti national football team in order to collect tactical information and video analysis.
Despite the detailed preparation, Wahbi insisted that Morocco fear no opponent, including Brazil national football team.
He concluded by underlining the ambition within the current Morocco squad, stating that the team believes it can compete deep into the World Cup and challenge for football’s biggest prize.
Wahbi’s comments are likely to raise expectations further among Moroccan supporters, who increasingly believe this generation of players possesses the quality and mentality required to achieve another historic World Cup campaign.
