Morocco7 has learned from well-informed sources that former Morocco international Hussein Kharja has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Fouzi Lekjaa as president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), as part of a potential leadership transition within Moroccan football.
According to the same sources, the reported move comes amid expectations of a transitional phase linked to the possible political future of Fouzi Lekjaa, Morocco’s Delegate Minister in charge of the Budget and the current president of the FRMF.
Available information suggests that Lekjaa may join the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) and run in the upcoming parliamentary elections in the Berkane constituency. However, no official confirmation has been issued by either Lekjaa or the party.
Sources quoted by Al Maghribi believe the next phase will require a leader with extensive football experience, strong international connections and the ability to continue the major reforms and development projects launched by the Federation over recent years, placing Hussein Kharja among the leading contenders.
A former captain of Morocco’s national team, Kharja enjoyed a distinguished professional career in several top European leagues before moving into football administration. He currently serves as a sporting and technical adviser to FIFA President Gianni Infantino and has taken part in a number of international football initiatives and meetings involving national associations.
The sources say this international profile could prove particularly valuable as Morocco prepares to host major sporting events, including the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the country will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
They also believe that, should his appointment eventually be confirmed, Kharja would help ensure continuity in Morocco’s football development strategy, which has delivered significant achievements in recent years across national teams, infrastructure and youth development.
At this stage, however, no official announcement has been made regarding any change in the leadership of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation.