FIFA: Wahbi Leads New Morocco Project to Revive 2022 Spirit with Young Talent Ahead of 2026 World Cup

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has highlighted a new phase for Moroccan football following the appointment of coach Mohamed Wahbi to lead the national team, as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup with high ambitions.

The report affirmed that Moroccan fans are no longer content with merely an honorable participation but now aspire to solidify the global standing the team achieved after its historic performance at the 2022 World Cup. Wahbi's appointment is based on his notable successes with the U20 national team, particularly after winning the U20 World Cup in Chile in 2025.

The report indicated that the Royal Moroccan Football Federation decided to turn a new page after the departure of Walid Regragui, who led the national team to the semi-finals of the Qatar World Cup. This move aims to maintain continuity and develop the technical project.

FIFA considered Wahbi's selection a smart decision, as it focuses on building upon the successes of the youth categories rather than starting from scratch, especially with the global tournament approaching.

The report added that Wahbi embodies the model of Moroccan talents returning from Europe, having accumulated coaching experience within the Anderlecht academy. This aligns with the Federation's policy of blending external expertise with local identity.

The report also drew a comparison between Wahbi's current situation and Regragui's appointment before the 2022 World Cup, where the latter succeeded in creating cohesion and leading the team to a historic achievement in record time. It noted that the pressure this time will be greater given the heightened expectations.

The Moroccan national team will play two friendly matches against Ecuador and Paraguay during the current March international break, marking the new coach's first real test before the World Cup.

Wahbi faces several challenges, most notably injuries to some players, which will force him to choose between relying on young talents or utilizing experienced players. Additionally, he must rebuild confidence within a squad that saw a coach who made history with them depart.

The report concluded by noting that the Moroccan national team's identity might not undergo radical changes. It is expected to maintain defensive solidity and rely on fast counter-attacks, the same approach that proved successful in the Qatar World Cup.

Wahbi is also anticipated to utilize quick and skillful players like Brahim Diaz and Abde Ezzalzouli, alongside young talents who previously excelled under him, such as Othman Maâma and Yasser Zoubir, in an effort to continue making history on the global stage.