According to Spanish newspaper Marca, the Moroccan Football Federation identified Xavi as a top candidate for the national team head coach position ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, the two parties did not reach an agreement due to timing. Xavi reportedly did not want to start a new project just months before the major tournament. Nevertheless, the possibility of him coaching Morocco in the future remains open, depending on the team's performance at the 2026 World Cup.

Walid Regragui confirmed his resignation as Morocco's national team coach during a late press conference on 5/3, less than 100 days before the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Moroccan Football Federation President Fouzi Lekjaa also attended the press conference, which served as a tribute to the 50-year-old coach. Regragui stated, "The team needs a new face, new energy, and a different perspective from a new coach. I believe the team requires a fresh impetus before the World Cup, a new vision to continue progressing. My decision to leave is part of the team's development." Regragui notably led Morocco to the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, the best performance by an African team in history. However, he faced criticism after the team failed to win the Africa Cup of Nations at home in January.

Coach Xavi at a press conference at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, Barcelona, Spain on 25/4/2024. *Reuters*

President Lekjaa announced Mohamed Ouahbi, who recently led Morocco's U20 team to a World Cup victory, as Regragui's successor. This marks the first time the 49-year-old Belgian-Moroccan coach will lead a national-level team. Ouahbi stated, "I am not here to rebuild from scratch, as the foundation is already set. My task is to maintain the performance." He also confirmed that Joao Sacramento, a former assistant at PSG who worked with Jose Mourinho at Roma and Tottenham, will be his assistant.

Xavi has been a free agent since his dismissal from Barca in 5/2024. During his tenure at Camp Nou, the Spanish coach oversaw 141 matches, recording 88 wins, 24 draws, and 29 losses, a winning percentage of 62,41%. He secured two titles: La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. As a professional player, Xavi spent 24 years with Barca, winning 25 titles, including four Champions Leagues. He was also a pivotal midfielder for Spain during their golden era, winning two Euros and one World Cup.

Coach Walid Regragui being celebrated by Morocco team members after defeating Portugal 1-0 in the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals. *FRMF*

Xavi's former teammate, ex-midfielder Andres Iniesta, is reportedly also being considered for a future role as Morocco's national team sports director, though the federation has not officially confirmed this. Morocco is currently investing billions of USD in sports infrastructure, aiming to become a football powerhouse. The nation will co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal and hopes to stage the final at Hassan II stadium, projected to be the world's largest football stadium with a capacity of 115,000 seats upon its completion in 2028. Morocco will play friendly matches against Ecuador on 27/3 and Paraguay on 31/3 before participating in the 2026 World Cup. In the tournament, they are placed in Group C alongside Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Marca)