The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) issued a statement today categorically denying media reports claiming that Walid Regragui is stepping down as the head coach of Morocco’s Atlas Lions.
FRMF issued a brief statement denying the news after several outlets suggested Regragui had expressed his intention to step down, citing exhaustion following the AFCON.
Several news outlets also said Regragui is linked to potential offers from clubs in Saudi Arabia.
The rumors followed the chaotic AFCON final, which cost Morocco its chance to secure its second trophy in 50 years.
The final between Senegal and Morocco was marred by several chaotic scenes, including the Senegalese team’s withdrawal from the match for 15 minutes, shifting the pace of the game and affecting the Atlas Lions’ performance.
They stepped down after the referee awarded Morocco a legitimate penalty following a foul against Brahim Diaz.
Senegalese fans also attempted to storm the pitch, using seats they destroyed as weapons against security guards.
The rumors that Regragui could step down also stem from his remarks in several press conferences, suggesting he’d step down if he did not win the AFCON with Morocco.
He made a similar remark following Morocco’s early exit from the continental tournament in 2024.
Following the exit, however, FRMF renewed its support in Regragui, stressing that it trusts him to continue leading the Moroccan national team.
FRMF said Fouzi Lekjaa held several meetings regarding the Atlas Lions’ participation in AFCON in 2024.
Identifying the shortcomings during the competition, Lekjaa emphasized the necessity to continue to give the Atlas Lions the “deserved status to delight the Moroccan fans in upcoming competitions, especially the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations, (which will be) hosted by Morocco.”
