“He is a machine, a key player for us,” said PSG manager Luis Enrique, highlighting the immense value of Achraf Hakimi as he races to recover for Morocco’s AFCON 2025 opener against Comoros on December 21. The urgency is palpable; however, PSG’s cautious approach regarding his recent ankle injury complicates matters.
Hakimi suffered a serious ankle injury in early November during a Champions League match against Bayern Munich, raising concerns about his availability for the tournament. While he has been pushing hard for recovery—reports indicate he is ahead of schedule—medical forecasts suggest that he may not be fully fit until just days after the AFCON opener.
That context matters because Hakimi has been a standout performer for PSG this season, contributing significantly with 2 goals and 3 assists in 14 matches. His absence would leave a notable void in the Moroccan side, which aims to build on its past successes.
Walid Regragui, head coach of the Morocco national team, insists that “Hakimi’s presence is non-negotiable for the Atlas Lions’ title ambitions.” This statement underscores not only Hakimi’s importance but also the pressure surrounding his recovery as Morocco looks to make a strong statement at AFCON 2025.
The delicate balance between ensuring Hakimi’s health and meeting competitive demands poses a challenge for both club and country. While Luis Enrique acknowledged that they have other high-level options available, he still recognized Hakimi’s irreplaceable role within the squad.
As the clock ticks down to the tournament, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. The next few days will be critical in determining whether Hakimi can take his place on the field or if PSG will prioritize long-term recovery over short-term gains.
For now, all eyes remain on Rabat as Achraf Hakimi continues his race against time, embodying both hope and uncertainty for Morocco as they prepare for their opening match against Comoros.