In a ceremony marked by recognition and continuity, the Mohammed VI Football Center in Maâmora hosted a farewell tribute for national team coach Walid Regragui this evening, following the conclusion of his tenure with the Atlas Lions. This event provided an opportunity for the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Fouzi Lekjaa, to praise the accomplishments achieved before officially handing over the reins to new coach Mohamed Wahbi.
A Lasting World Cup Achievement and Royal Guidance
Fouzi Lekjaa began his speech during the ceremony by affirming that honoring Regragui and his coaching staff comes as recognition for their significant contributions to national football. The federation president emphasized that the rising trajectory of Moroccan football is the result of royal directives and the national strategy established since 2008.
Lekjaa reminded attendees of the historical achievement in Doha, stressing that reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar remains a hallmark, stating: “The achievement of finishing fourth will be etched in the memory of generations, proving that our ambition can exceed mere participation for the sake of participation.” He added that this brilliance infused a new winning spirit that positively reflected on various age groups of the national teams, as well as women’s football and indoor soccer.
Objective Evaluation and Continued Development
Concerning the period following the recent Africa Cup of Nations, Lekjaa revealed that the federation has initiated a precise and objective evaluation of various aspects related to the national team’s performance. He praised Regragui’s professionalism, saying: “Mr. Walid participated in this evaluation process with full responsibility, as a coach and a proud Moroccan citizen serving his country.”
The speaker further clarified that the strategy for the upcoming phase will not rely on demolition and complete reconstruction, but will focus on maintaining continuity and enhancing overall performance to ensure optimal preparation for future football milestones.
An Emotional Farewell and Announcement of Mohamed Wahbi as New Coach
At the end of his address, the federation president delivered an emotional message of thanks to the former national team coach, summarizing the extent of the sacrifices made: “We thank Mr. Walid Regragui and his entire staff for their efforts and sacrifices of which I have been a witness… We have always been one family within the national team, working toward the singular goal of Morocco’s best interest.”
He added in his farewell: “We wish you success in your professional and personal journey, and I assure you that the doors of the federation will remain open for you, as this house will always be yours.”
The closing moments of the ceremony saw a pivotal event in the history of the technical management of the “Lions,” as it was officially announced that Mohamed Wahbi has been appointed as the new coach of the Moroccan national team, set to lead the team through upcoming continental and international challenges, with hopes pinned on continued successes and the joy of Moroccan fans.
