The Saudi Pro League has entered the race to sign Moroccan national team head coach Walid Regragui, creating direct competition with Real Madrid for the 49-year-old tactician.
According to sources close to the matter, an unnamed Saudi club has made an official approach to Regragui’s representatives, offering a lucrative contract that would see him take over the managerial role ahead of the 2026 season. The offer is understood to be worth a significant annual salary, with performance-related bonuses included.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, have also placed Regragui on their shortlist as a potential successor to current manager Carlo Ancelotti. The Spanish giants are monitoring the situation closely, with club officials reportedly impressed by Regragui’s work with the Moroccan national team, particularly their historic run to the World Cup semi-finals in 2022.
Regragui’s current contract with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation runs until 2026, and any move would require the payment of a release clause. The Moroccan tactician has previously stated his commitment to the national team project, but the interest from both the Saudi league and Real Madrid presents a significant dilemma.
The Saudi Pro League’s ambition to attract top managerial talent is no secret, having already secured high-profile names in recent windows. A source close to the negotiations confirmed that the Saudi club sees Regragui as a long-term investment, aiming to build a project around his tactical philosophy.
Real Madrid’s interest adds another layer of complexity. The European champions view Regragui as a modern coach capable of managing a squad filled with superstars, and his ability to organize defensively while maintaining attacking fluidity has caught the eye of the Bernabéu hierarchy.
Regragui has not yet made a decision, with his focus currently on Morocco’s upcoming international fixtures. However, insiders suggest that a resolution could come before the end of the current season, with both parties eager to secure his services for the 2026 campaign.
