Charles Musonda, former Chipolopolo midfielder has reflected on his early encounters with Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi, revealing that the Belgian-born tactician had always envisioned himself coaching the Atlas Lions at the highest level.
Ouahbi replaced Walid Regragui, who stepped down following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final defeat to Senegal.
The former Anderlecht academy coach has enjoyed a rapid rise, having guided Morocco to the FIFA Under-20 World Cup title earlier this year before taking charge of the senior national team.
His reign has started positively at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Morocco drawing 1-1 against Brazil before defeating Scotland 1-0. The Atlas Lions sit second in Group C on four points, level with group leaders Brazil, who have a superior goal difference.
In a Facebook post, Musonda, who spent much of his playing career in Belgium, shared memories of working alongside Ouahbi at the Anderlecht academy, describing him as a coach whose ambition and dedication were evident from the outset.
“He arrived at Anderlecht Academy determined to become a top coach. I always called him ‘The Moroccan.’ He used to carry a book, studying, learning, and talking about football. Every conversation was about the game and the small details that make a difference.”
“His path was clear” – Musonda.
Musonda recalled how Ouahbi was constantly seeking to improve his knowledge of the game and even insisted on communicating in English during their discussions.
“He even insisted on speaking English with me. I still remember us analyzing U12 tactics. His path was clear.”
Musonda said their conversations often extended to African football, including meetings between Zambia and Morocco, before Ouahbi made a bold prediction about his future.
“We could speak about the Zambia-Morocco matches. He once said, ‘I will coach Morocco.’ I said, “No way. ‘He’s there like he predicted.”
Musonda said the success Ouahbi has achieved as a coach is as a result of his hard work and dedication.
“You could see his ambition from the very beginning. Today, Mohamed Ouahbi is coaching at the highest level. His journey shows what passion, knowledge, and dedication can achieve,” he said.
“Winning the U20 World Cup with Morocco was already a remarkable achievement. Well done, Coach Mumu, as the boys used to call him at the academy. Your success makes me smile. Unbelievable, yet true.”
Ouahbi and Morocco will now shift attention to the match against Haiti as they aim to qualify for the Round of 32.
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