By Maxwell Kumoye
Despite weeks of swirling speculation, Walid Regragui will remain at the helm of Morocco national football team, after the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) issued a firm denial of reports suggesting a split.
In a terse one-sentence statement, the FRMF shut down the rumors: it “denies the circulating reports about its separation from coach Walid Regragui.”
Just like that, the federation attempted to draw a line under the growing noise surrounding the Atlas Lions’ dugout.
The uncertainty had intensified in the aftermath of Morocco’s dramatic and chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final defeat on January 18, a match overshadowed by controversy as Senegal national football team briefly walked off the pitch, fans attempted to breach security, and incidents of vandalism marred what should have been a showpiece occasion.
While Morocco’s run to the final was historic, the manner of the loss reopened scrutiny of Regragui’s tactical decisions and squad management.
Throughout the tournament, the 49-year-old coach came under fire for bold and at times baffling calls, including the decision to include injured players such as the now-retired Romain Saïss.
Critics questioned whether loyalty and sentiment clouded competitive judgment at a crucial moment.
But Regragui never blinked.
“Yes, I still think so; otherwise I wouldn’t be sitting here,” he declared when asked if he remained the right man to lead Morocco to continental glory.
“I have even more confidence than everyone else. I believe in this group and this team. And we know that in any competition, especially the Africa Cup of Nations, it’s at the end of the show that the musicians get paid.”
Adding fuel to the fire were reports linking him with French giants Olympique de Marseille, amid suggestions he could replace Mehdi Benatia.
The rumors gained traction after Regragui previously hinted he would step aside if Morocco failed to lift the AFCON trophy.
For now, however, there is no vacancy.
The federation has spoken again and Regragui remains in charge. The debate may not be over, but the Atlas Lions’ bench is not changing hands anytime soon.
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