Jorge Vilda has been dismissed as coach of the Morocco women’s national football team after a three-year tenure, according to an official announcement from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation. The federation confirmed that French coach Eric Blahic will take over the Atlas Lionesses ahead of upcoming friendlies against Uzbekistan and preparations for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation Omits Vilda in Reassignment Announcement
The transition came to light when the Royal Moroccan Football Federation published its latest squad roster and team concentration schedule in Rabat, naming Eric Blahic as the new head coach. The federation's official communication made no mention of Jorge Vilda, who had operated out of the Mohammed VI Football Complex since his appointment in October 2023. As reported, the governing body did not provide specific reasons for removing the Spanish coach from his post.
Under Vilda’s leadership, Morocco reached the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where they fell 3-2 to Nigeria after eliminating Mali in the quarterfinals and Ghana in the semifinals. In the subsequent continental tournament held in July, the Atlas Lionesses finished in fourth place following a semifinal defeat to Cameroon, despite securing qualification for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
Eric Blahic Takes Control of the Atlas Lionesses for Upcoming Friendlies
Incoming coach Eric Blahic arrives with extensive experience in women’s and men’s professional soccer. The 61-year-old French manager previously served two separate stints as assistant coach for the France women’s national team. His resume also includes assistant coaching positions in French men’s club football with Paris Saint-Germain, Bordeaux, Sochaux, Guingamp, and Nantes.
Blahic’s immediate assignment involves overseeing a training camp in Rabat and preparing the squad for two international friendly matches against Uzbekistan. The first fixture is scheduled for October 6, followed by a second match on October 12 in the Moroccan capital.
Vilda’s Tenure in Morocco and Previous Role with Spain
Vilda originally took charge of the Morocco setup in October 2023, arriving just one month after his dismissal from the Spanish Football Federation. His departure from Spain followed the fallout from the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup victory in Australia and New Zealand, where former RFEF president Luis Rubiales faced suspension and legal action following an unsanctioned kiss involving player Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony.
