FC Nantes’ Ahmed Kantari takes Morocco U17 role, fans stunned

After a winter of disappointing results that saw him exit FC Nantes, former Moroccan international defender Ahmed Kantari has secured a glittering new assignment, taking charge of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s U17 national side. The move marks a fresh chapter in his coaching career and places him at the helm of the Lionceaux de l’Atlas.

Departure from FC Nantes

Kantari joined the FC Nantes technical staff before being promoted to head coach in December 2025, but his tenure ended in March 2026 after the team failed to deliver results. The short spell left many questioning his tactical approach and the club’s direction.

Et les supporters des deux camps ont exprimé leur mécontentement. One fan mocked, “They must not have the TV there, that’s the only explanation,” while another added, “He must have good contacts, it’s crazy to find a job given his low tactical level!” A third remarked, “The guys have great agents anyway.” La décision a suscité des débats parmi les fans de Nantes.

New role with Morocco U17

The Fédération royale marocaine de Football officially announced Kantari’s appointment as head of the U17 national team, entrusting him with the Lionceaux de l’Atlas. The federation’s technical direction highlighted a desire to promote national technicians with substantial professional experience.

This choice surprised many, given his recent club record at FC Nantes, but his résumé includes spells at Valenciennes, Nottingham Forest alongside Sabri Lamouchi, and Al‑Duhail, as well as a UEFA Pro licence. Des expériences variées renforcent son profil pour encadrer les jeunes talents.

The U17 squad represents a generation closely monitored by the federation, tasked with feeding future senior Morocco (Maroc) selections. Kantari will need to adapt quickly, develop the players’ skills, and align the team with the long‑term national strategy.

For Kantari, the appointment offers a chance to relaunch his career after the complicated Nantes episode. He sees the role as both a professional redemption and an opportunity to shape the next wave of Moroccan football talent.