Why Iniesta Talks Fail As Morocco Eyes Xavi For Future Role

Why Iniesta Talks Fail As Morocco Eyes Xavi For Future Role

By Niyi Busari 

Reports linking Andrés Iniesta with a move to the Morocco national football team as sporting director have collapsed, despite earlier indications that an agreement was close, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The development comes amid broader changes within the Moroccan national setup following confirmation on Thursday that head coach Walid Regragui would step down from his role.

Former FC Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández had been widely reported as a leading candidate to replace Regragui. However, the Spaniard declined the opportunity, reportedly citing the limited preparation time available before the 2026 FIFA World Cup later this year.

With Xavi opting against the role for now, Morocco’s under-20 coach Mohamed Ouahbi has been appointed as interim head coach.

Iniesta Appointment Falls Through

Speculation intensified on Thursday evening that Iniesta was set to become sporting director of the Atlas Lions. However, Spanish outlet Marca reports that negotiations ultimately broke down.

According to the report, discussions between Iniesta and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation began in the days leading up to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations and had progressed to an advanced stage.

Talks reportedly collapsed earlier this week after the two parties failed to reach an agreement on the former midfielder’s salary.

Despite the breakdown, a statement announcing Iniesta’s appointment had already been drafted by the federation and circulated internally under embargo on Thursday night. The document was never released, but its existence contributed to widespread speculation that the deal had been completed.

Xavi Still Linked With Future Morocco Role

While Xavi rejected the immediate opportunity, reports suggest he remains a leading candidate to take over the Moroccan national team after the 2026 World Cup.

Should that scenario materialise, there remains the possibility that Iniesta could join him in a technical role following the tournament.

Such a partnership would raise the prospect of two of Spain’s most celebrated midfielders working together to guide Morocco toward the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco.