Xavi Rejects Morocco Coaching Role Before World Cup, Citing Lack of Time for New Project

Catalan channel "Esport3" confirmed that the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) included Spanish coach Xavi Hernández on its list of candidates to take over as head coach of the Moroccan national team, despite the fact that a separation from Walid Regragui has not yet occurred.

According to the same source, Xavi communicated with the Federation and confirmed his unwillingness to lead the "Atlas Lions" at present, stating that he does not have enough time to build his project, especially with less than four months remaining until the 2026 World Cup.

The report clarified that Xavi, who has been without a coaching role since his departure from Barcelona in the summer of 2024, believes there isn't sufficient time to establish a new project. However, he has not closed the door on coaching the Moroccan national team, opting to postpone the decision until after the World Cup. Should the Federation maintain its interest, Xavi would then be open to formal negotiations.

It is worth noting that the Royal Moroccan Football Federation issued a statement yesterday evening, Tuesday, denying rumors of Walid Regragui's departure, indicating his continued leadership of the "Atlas Lions" technical staff.