Xavi Reportedly Leading Candidate for Morocco Managerial Position
In a surprising development just four months before the 2026 World Cup, former Barcelona manager Xavi has emerged as the frontrunner to take charge of the Morocco national team. This comes despite the fact that the current Moroccan boss, Walid Regragui, remains officially in his role, with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation twice publicly denying any separation.
Regragui's Uncertain Future and Federation Denials
Multiple reports indicate that Walid Regragui is on the brink of leaving his position as Morocco's head coach. However, the federation has strongly refuted these claims, releasing a short statement asserting: 'The Royal Moroccan Football Federation denies the information circulating regarding its separation with coach Mr. Walid Regragui.' Regragui has built an impressive reputation, leading Morocco to a historic fourth-place finish at the 2022 World Cup and a runner-up spot in the recent African Cup of Nations, making him a tough act to follow and a highly sought-after coach in his own right.
Morocco's 'Dream' Appointment and Xavi's Ambitions
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Moroccan football authorities are 'dreaming' of appointing Xavi, who has been unemployed since his dismissal from Barcelona in 2024. The legendary midfielder, who performed a dramatic U-turn to stay at Barcelona only weeks before his sacking, is said to be eager to take on a major new project. Xavi has expressed openness to returning to management, stating in an interview with France Football last March: 'I don’t have anything established in my future, I have an open mind. Why not manage another La Liga side? I’m open to listening to offers. I’m looking for an exciting project and I have the ambition to win titles.'
Potential Stumbling Blocks and Tempting Prospects
A potential obstacle is Xavi's reported preference for beginning a project from the start, rather than taking over mid-cycle. However, the Morocco job could prove highly tempting. Morocco has been drawn into a World Cup group with Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti—a favourable draw that they will fancy their chances of advancing from. The squad still boasts significant talent, including Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz, Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi, and Manchester United's Noussair Mazraoui.
Xavi's Broader Management Aspirations
Xavi has outlined ambitious goals for his managerial career, emphasising a desire for his teams to play attractive football and win major trophies. He stated: 'I want to win the Champions League, the Euros, the World Cup.' While managing his home country, Spain—with whom he won the World Cup as a player in 2010 and the Euros in 2008 and 2012—would offer a strong chance at the latter two, this opportunity seems unlikely soon. Spain's current manager, Luis de la Fuente, recently extended his contract until 2028 after leading the team to the 2024 European Championship title.
Xavi has also previously expressed interest in managing in the Premier League, telling The Athletic: 'I'd love to work in the Premier League because I love the passion there.' Meanwhile, the only currently available managerial position for a side heading to the 2026 World Cup is with Curaçao, after 78-year-old Dick Advocaat resigned to care for his sick daughter.
