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national team coach at Mohammed VI Football Complex. Image Source: FRMF
Mohamed Ouahbi shares his first plans as Morocco national team head coach.
Mohamed Ouahbi has shared his first vision for Morocco’s national team after being appointed head coach. The new Atlas Lions manager outlined his staff structure and confirmed his strategy will build on the work established in recent years.
First words after official appointment
Mohamed Ouahbi was officially presented as Morocco’s new national team coach during a ceremony at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora.
The event followed the farewell ceremony for former coach Walid Regragui, who guided Morocco through one of its most successful eras in international football.
Speaking to the media, Ouahbi said he felt honored by the appointment and fully aware of the expectations surrounding the Atlas Lions.
The coach also expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI for his continued support of Moroccan football and thanked the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and its president Fouzi Lekjaa for their trust.
João Sacramento confirmed as assistant coach
One of Ouahbi’s first announcements concerned the technical staff. The Portuguese coach João Sacramento will join the national team as first assistant.
Sacramento previously worked in several major European clubs including Monaco, Lille, Tottenham and AS Roma. He also collaborated with high-profile coaches such as José Mourinho and Christophe Galtier.
According to Ouahbi, Sacramento brings valuable experience and tactical expertise to the Moroccan coaching staff.
The full technical team will be revealed in the coming days as preparations continue for Morocco’s next international fixtures.
A project focused on continuity
Ouahbi emphasized that his project will focus on continuity rather than major changes.
He acknowledged that Morocco’s defeat in the AFCON 2025 final left a strong emotional impact on players and supporters, but he believes the team remains strong and capable of moving forward.
The new coach explained that his initial work has already focused on evaluating the team’s situation and identifying solutions to maintain competitive performance.
His objective is to build on the identity and cohesion developed under Walid Regragui while preparing the team for upcoming international competitions.
Performance will guide squad selection
Ouahbi also addressed the selection process for upcoming matches against Ecuador and Paraguay.
The coach confirmed that a preliminary list of players has already been drafted. However, final selections will be based strictly on performance levels.
He rejected the idea that his choices would favor younger players automatically, emphasizing that merit and form will remain the key criteria.
This approach aims to maintain a competitive balance within the squad while ensuring that the most in-form players represent Morocco.
