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Achraf Hakimi has become one of football’s most dynamic right-backs, recognised for his lightning pace and his attacking style. In 2025, the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Morocco star finds himself both at a career high and at the centre of considerable off-field attention. British football fans continue to search for Hakimi’s latest achievements, transfer rumours, and legal developments, making him one of the most talked-about international players in the UK today.
Early Life and Career Rise
Born in Madrid to Moroccan parents in 1998, Achraf Hakimi came through the ranks at Real Madrid. Despite his promise, Hakimi found first-team opportunities limited, making only 17 senior appearances for Los Blancos. A switch to Borussia Dortmund in 2018, initially on loan, allowed him to flourish, demonstrating the offensive qualities that have since become his trademark.
During his two seasons at Dortmund, Hakimi caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs. He made 73 appearances, scoring 12 goals and providing numerous assists, a remarkable return for a defender. In 2020, a big-money move to Inter Milan followed, where he was instrumental in securing the Serie A title—the club’s first in 11 years. Less than a year later, PSG secured his signature for a fee rising to €68 million, a clear sign of his growing reputation.
Success in Paris
Hakimi’s tenure at Paris Saint-Germain has solidified his status as one of the world’s best. His ability to surge down the flank, contribute offensively, and defend resolutely saw him play 123 times for the French giants by summer 2025. He was central to PSG’s historic 2025 campaign, scoring the opening goal in their 5-0 Champions League final victory over Inter Milan—the club’s first Champions League crown. This triumph added to his four Ligue 1 titles in Paris, showing his consistency at the game’s highest levels.
International Breakthrough with Morocco
On the international scene, Hakimi is captain of the Moroccan national team. His leadership was crucial during Morocco’s history-making run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, where the North African side became the first Arab and African country to reach that stage. Hakimi’s composure under pressure, immense work rate, and ability to score crucial goals endeared him to fans worldwide and inspired communities across the UK and Europe with Moroccan heritage.
He has represented Morocco across multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and even played as one of the squad’s overage stars at the 2024 Summer Olympics. As of 2025, he has earned more than 80 caps for his country.
Recent Achievements and Ballon d’Or Talks
The 2024-25 season may be Hakimi’s best yet. PSG swept to the Ligue 1 title, with Hakimi starring in both defence and attack. In May 2025, he not only scored in the Champions League final but also netted in the Coupe de France. Across all competitions, Hakimi’s goal and assist numbers rank among the best for full-backs globally.
His standout performances have led to serious discussions regarding the Ballon d’Or shortlist, a rarity for a defender. British pundits note how Hakimi’s blend of robust defending and offensive flair fits the modern definition of a full-back—versatile, quick, and relentless. Many consider him a benchmark for the new generation of wing-backs, and certainly one of the best ever to represent an African nation at club and international level.
Legal Issues and Personal Life
While Hakimi’s on-pitch exploits continue to grab headlines, 2025 has also seen the player in the spotlight for less enviable reasons. French prosecutors have recently requested that Hakimi stand trial over allegations of rape related to an incident in early 2023. The investigation dates back to an encounter in Paris, with Hakimi denying all accusations and his lawyers calling the case “senseless and incomprehensible”.
The judge now faces a decision on whether to advance the charges to court. The public and media await the outcome, but PSG have continued to back Hakimi as proceedings unfold. The legal battle has inevitably raised questions about player conduct and the scrutiny faced by footballers at the peak of their fame. Hakimi remains innocent until proven guilty, and his legal team has outlined plans to appeal any adverse decisions.
Transfer Speculation and Contract
Hakimi’s footballing future also remains hotly debated in the UK. Reports have linked him to a potential return to Real Madrid, where he began his career, though his contract with PSG has just been extended to 2029. PSG are adamant about their desire to keep him but have reportedly set a valuation of at least €60 million should any suitor—Madrid or otherwise—make a formal approach.
These rumours gain traction amid the ongoing evolution of top clubs’ squads across Europe. Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United are all rumoured to be monitoring Hakimi’s situation, although PSG’s high expectations make any transfer difficult. English fans, remembering his performances against Premier League clubs in Europe, see Hakimi as a marquee player with the potential to transform any defence in the league.
Conclusion
Achraf Hakimi stands as one of football’s most talented and talked-about stars. His journey from Madrid’s suburbs to the pinnacle of world football—captaining Morocco, winning major trophies with PSG, and earning universal respect as a top-tier right-back—tells the story of a player with immense skill and resilience.
As 2025 unfolds, Hakimi’s career balances between further glory on the pitch and a high-profile legal process off it. His professional and personal life are a reminder of the complexities faced by modern footballers: great achievement and public scrutiny go hand in hand. For now, he remains a world-class talent and a central figure in the beautiful game, watched closely by fans across the UK and beyond.
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