Morocco National Team Targets Barcelona Legend for Head Coach Position

After the painful loss at AFCON 2025, Morocco's national team stands at a critical crossroads regarding its coaching staff.

According to sources from Marca, the Moroccan Football Federation has identified Xavi Hernandez as the top candidate to replace coach Walid Regragui, who is reportedly about to step down.

Regragui made history by leading Morocco to the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, creating a shockwave in African football. However, football is always ruthless. Finishing as runners-up at AFCON 2025 significantly diminished confidence in him. With roughly three months remaining before the FIFA World Cup 2026, Morocco must act swiftly if they want to maintain their status as a formidable dark horse on the global football stage.

Xavi has emerged as the dream candidate. The Barcelona legend made headlines by helping the Catalan club rebuild after a period of financial crisis and poor performance. Xavi’s philosophy of ball control, emphasis on technique, and ability to develop young talent are seen as well-suited to Morocco’s current generation, which includes many stars playing in Europe.

However, this deal is far from straightforward. Xavi left Barcelona in 2024 and has yet to return to coaching. According to reports, the Spanish tactician is reluctant to take over a national team so close to the World Cup. He prefers to focus on long-term projects where he can shape playing style and clearly impart his philosophy, rather than stepping into a “firefighting” role under tight deadlines.

This presents a tough challenge for the Moroccan Football Federation. They need a high-profile figure who can inspire the team but also ensure stability before the biggest tournament in the world. If they succeed in convincing Xavi, Morocco would not only gain a top-class coach but also a global football icon, an element that could elevate the team’s image.

If Xavi declines, Morocco will have to explore other options, but their ambitions are clearly high. After the historic run at the 2022 World Cup, fans expect the team not to remain a one-time sensation. The 2026 World Cup is their chance to prove their new status, and the coaching decision could be crucial.

Will Xavi accept the challenge in Africa? The answer remains uncertain, but Morocco’s approach signals they are aiming for a bold new chapter ahead of the 2026 World Cup.