The arrival of Andres Iniesta may have influenced Tarik Sektioui’s decision to turn down the chance to succeed Walid Regragui as head coach of the Moroccan national team.
While Regragui’s departure has been confirmed behind the scenes for several days, Sektioui was seen as the leading candidate to take over, according to journalist Soufiane Bhr. After winning the CHAN and Arab Cup with the A’ team, the 48-year-old tactician had even begun preparing for the post-Regragui era.
But everything changed with Iniesta’s arrival at the technical direction of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). This appointment opened the door to more prestigious profiles, with links to Xavi and even Jose Mourinho after the 2026 World Cup (June 11 – July 19). As a result, the federation opted for an interim coach before the World Cup.
This scenario was unacceptable for Sektioui, a native of Fez, who believes he has done enough for the national teams to not settle for a transitional role. The FRMF then turned to Mohamed Ouahbi, the reigning U20 World Champion. He could be joined in his staff by Joao Sacramento, a former assistant to Mourinho, and ex-Moroccan international Youssouf Hadji.
