Editor Note: This article is translated from the original written in French by Omar Chraibi
In an exclusive interview given to the official Paris Saint-Germain website, Achraf Hakimi spoke about his incredible start to the season, his role as a leader on the pitch as well as the relationship between him and his coach Luis Enrique. The Moroccan right-back also shared his thoughts on his nomination among the finalists for the 2025 African Ballon d'Or, a distinction he considers a consecration of his hard work since his debut.
Personal and Family Pride
The name of Achraf Hakimi figures prominently among the best players in Africa for the year 2024, and it is with deep pride that the defender evokes this recognition. “It’s an important moment, and if I win this prize, I want to share it with those who supported me: my family, my mother, my children,” he confides. A recognition which, according to him, represents much more than a simple prize: “It is the result of all the sacrifices, difficult times and incessant efforts since my childhood.”
For Hakimi, this nomination is not just a personal validation, but also a tribute to those who believed in him throughout his career.
Luis Enrique: The Engine of Renewed Motivation
Luis Enrique's praise of him, calling him "the best right-back" he has ever had under his command, had a huge impact on the player. “When a coach with so much experience tells you that, it pushes you to give the best of yourself,” he explains with humility. These words from his coach galvanize Hakimi, who admits that this new confidence motivates him to work even harder for PSG.
The Captain's Armband: A Role of Responsibility
Wearing the Paris Saint-Germain captain's armband on several occasions is an honor that Achraf Hakimi takes very seriously. “It’s a role that taught me a lot of things,” he confides. “I am lucky to be able to speak with Marquinhos and Presnel Kimpembe, two real leaders in this team. It’s an honor to be captain and I hope to continue to make the Parisians proud,” he adds, determined to lead his team to new successes.
A Visionary Project in Morocco
Hakimi's attachment to his native country, Morocco, was strongly demonstrated during the inauguration of the PSG Academy in Morocco. “It was a very moving moment,” he remembers. This project, born from a collaboration between PSG, its foundation and himself, aims to offer young Moroccans better conditions to develop their footballing talent, while transmitting to them essential values such as respect and discipline. “We hope to discover new Moroccan talents through this project,” he says, emphasizing the importance of this social and sporting project.
A Promising Career Filled with Promises
Under contract until 2028 with PSG, Achraf Hakimi continues to write his story, with a career marked by success and ever greater ambitions. From his early years in Spain to his meteoric rise with Paris Saint-Germain, Hakimi proved that determination and vision can transform raw talent into a footballing legend. This is only the beginning for the man who is destined to shine on the biggest stages.
Comments