Walid Regragui has emerged as a serious candidate to become Ecuador's next national team coach, marking a potential shift toward South American football for the Moroccan tactician. According to reports from the Ecuadorian press, Regragui is actively being considered to replace Sebastian Beccacece following Ecuador's elimination from the 2026 World Cup qualification round.
Sources close to Regragui indicate the former Morocco manager is genuinely interested in the position, having expressed openness to the opportunity provided contract terms and working conditions align with his expectations. The Ecuador national federation is prioritizing a swift appointment, aiming to finalize the managerial decision before mid-September to allow adequate preparation time ahead of critical international fixtures scheduled throughout autumn.
Competing Candidates for Ecuador Role
Regragui faces substantial competition for the position. The shortlist includes several high-profile coaches with international experience:
- Paulo Bento (Portugal) — experienced European tactician
- Marcelo Gallardo (Argentina) — Copa Libertadores winner with River Plate
- Eduardo Dominguez — Argentine football strategist
- Miguel Angel Ramirez — Spanish coaching specialist
- Robert Moreno — Spanish international football coach
The Ecuador federation's timeline reflects the importance of September, October, and November international breaks, which will determine qualification momentum for future continental competitions. Regragui's management of Morocco during recent World Cup campaigns demonstrates his capability to navigate high-pressure international football, a quality Ecuador will require as it rebuilds following World Cup disappointment.
This opportunity represents Regragui's first potential coaching venture in South America, offering a new challenge in the competitive CONMEBOL confederation environment.
