Moroccan football giants Raja Club Athletic have officially appointed Abdelkarim El Jinani as first-team head coach on a renewable one-season contract, confirming their decision to back the Moroccan tactician following an encouraging run of results.
The announcement, made on Thursday, November 12, signals the club’s intention to restore stability to its technical department as Raja prepare for important domestic and continental fixtures.
Raja Casablanca confirm El Jinani as permanent head coach
After several days of speculation surrounding the club’s coaching position, Raja Casablanca have decided to place their trust in Abdelkarim El Jinani.
The Moroccan coach has agreed to a contract covering one sporting season, with the option to extend the agreement.
According to Moroccan sports media, the signing took place in the presence of club president Jawad Ziyat and interim general manager Karim Saïdi.
The appointment reflects the management’s preference for continuity after El Jinani delivered positive results during his interim spell.
Back-to-back victories strengthen El Jinani’s position
Two consecutive victories played a significant role in convincing Raja’s management to give the coach a permanent appointment.
Important victory over AS FAR
Raja secured an important 2-1 win against Rabat-based rivals AS FAR, boosting confidence within the squad after a difficult period.
The result provided an encouraging sign that the team could recover its competitive form under El Jinani’s leadership.
Another success against Ittihad Tanger
The Casablanca club followed that performance with a 2-0 victory over Ittihad Tanger at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
These consecutive wins strengthened El Jinani’s reputation within the club and supported the management’s decision to keep him in charge.
Coaching changes following Paco Jémez’s departure
Raja had been undergoing changes within their coaching department following the departure of Spanish manager Paco Jémez.
El Jinani, who had previously worked with the club’s technical staff, stepped into a temporary leadership role before securing his permanent appointment.
His familiarity with Moroccan football and Raja’s sporting environment appears to have been an important factor in the club’s decision.
El Jinani expected to help shape the technical staff
Moroccan media reports suggest that the new head coach is expected to receive significant responsibility in selecting and organising his supporting technical team.
The composition of the coaching staff, including assistant coaches and performance analysts, will be among the important decisions in the coming period.
A stable and coordinated technical department could help Raja manage the demands of a busy season.
Domestic and African competitions among key priorities
El Jinani takes charge at an important moment in Raja’s campaign, with the club looking to improve its consistency in Morocco’s Botola Pro championship.
Raja also have continental ambitions in the CAF Confederation Cup, where strong performances will be essential to their hopes of progressing through the competition.
The new head coach will need to balance tactical preparation, squad management and physical fitness while maintaining the positive momentum generated by recent victories.
Supporters hope for a new period of stability
Raja Casablanca are among Morocco’s most widely supported football clubs, with a passionate fan base expecting competitive performances and trophies.
El Jinani’s appointment represents an opportunity to build on recent improvements and restore greater consistency.
However, the true measure of his success will come from the team’s results over the coming weeks and months.
Conclusion
By appointing Abdelkarim El Jinani on a renewable one-season deal, Raja Casablanca have chosen stability and continuity at a critical stage of their campaign.
After delivering two important victories, the Moroccan coach now faces the challenge of converting a promising start into sustained success across domestic and African competitions.
Sources: Raja Club Athletic announcement dated November 12, 2026; Hespress, Le Matin Sports and El Botola.
