Morocco keen to bring Xavi and Iniesta on board for 2030 World Cup push

Morocco is entering a period of major transition after its disappointing Africa Cup of Nations campaign — and with the World Cup fast approaching. On Thursday, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) appointed Mohamed Ouahbi, previously the coach of Morocco’s U‑20 squad that won the World Cup, as the new head coach of the senior national team.

Morocco keen to hire Iniesta

But the changes likely won’t stop there. For several months, the FRMF has been in talks with Andrés Iniesta to bring him in as the federation’s new sporting director. Iniesta attended the final in Rabat as a guest of King Mohammed VI, and many expected his appointment to be announced alongside the new coach. However, the lack of a finalized agreement has delayed the move.

Still, Morocco’s interest is clear. Landing Iniesta — one of the most respected figures in world soccer — would be a major statement as the country prepares for the next cycle, which includes co‑hosting the 2026 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

And with Iniesta potentially overseeing the project, another Spanish legend could follow: Xavi Hernández. The former Barcelona manager was among the candidates to take over the national team immediately, but he prefers to start a project from scratch — not three months before a World Cup with a roster largely shaped by former coach Walid Regragui and the federation.

Looking further ahead

What happens after the World Cup, however, could be a very different story. If Morocco decides to make a dramatic shift — pairing Iniesta in the front office with Xavi on the sideline — it would be a massive leap forward for the 2026–2030 cycle. That period includes the 2027 and 2028 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, the new CAF Nations League, and of course the World Cup, where Morocco will serve as one of the host nations.

Two Spanish icons could soon become central figures in Morocco’s long‑term project.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.