Atlas Lions: Ouahbi Lays the Foundations for a New Cycle Built on Trust, Bold Choices and Long-Term Vision
As upcoming international fixtures approach, Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has outlined a clear roadmap for the Atlas Lions. Balancing squad renewal, managing absences and long-term planning, the national team manager is fully embracing his decisions while setting his sights firmly on the future.
Speaking during a press conference at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Ouahbi expressed confidence in the quality of the selected squad. He highlighted the players’ positive mindset, pointing to a strong sense of patriotism and a genuine desire to improve.
According to him, the chosen players are capable of making a significant contribution in the medium term, as part of building a competitive team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The coach also clarified several notable absences. Sofyan Amrabat and Nayef Aguerd are unavailable due to medical reasons, while other omissions were purely technical decisions.
This includes Youssef En-Nesyri, who was left out to limit the number of forwards, as well as Ilias Akhomach, whose absence is part of a broader tactical reflection. Ouahbi also addressed the case of Soufiane Benjdida, praising his performances while noting that his profile does not currently fit the team’s needs.
This first squad list reflects a desire to strike a balance between experienced leaders and new faces. Ouahbi aims to build a strong collective dynamic while preparing for the future with players capable of contributing over the long term.
The upcoming friendly matches against Ecuador on March 27 in Madrid and Paraguay on March 31 in Lens will serve as a testing ground to evaluate these choices and refine tactical approaches.
Eyes on the 2026 World Cup
Drawn in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti, the Atlas Lions are fully aware of the challenges ahead. In this context, Mohamed Ouahbi appears determined to build a competitive, disciplined and ambitious team.
Through his decisions, the head coach is already shaping the outline of a new cycle, based on commitment, competition and a clear objective: preparing a national team capable of competing at the highest international level.
Translated from Abderrazzak Boussaid’s French article – le7tv
