PSG Coach Lauds Hakimi's Evolution: Morocco's Star Defender Shows Growing Tactical Maturity

Tuesday 22 October 2024 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

PSG Coach Lauds Hakimi's Evolution: Morocco's Star Defender Shows Growing Tactical Maturity

Paris Saint-Germain's head coach Luis Enrique has highlighted the remarkable development of Achraf Hakimi, emphasizing the Moroccan defender's growing tactical sophistication ahead of their Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven.

"He's becoming more well-rounded, especially on the defensive side," Enrique observed during a pre-match press conference. "Hakimi is an elite player with vast experience and serves as a reference for his teammates. I think he's more mature compared to last season, and that reflects his development."

The 25-year-old full-back's increasing importance at PSG has prompted the club to prioritize extending his contract. His trajectory from Real Madrid's academy graduate to becoming one of Europe's most sought-after defenders showcases his exceptional development, further validated by his recent appointment as captain of Morocco's national team.

Hakimi's recent achievements include securing a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics with Morocco's U23 squad, adding to an already impressive career portfolio. His journey began in Madrid's youth system, where he made his first-team breakthrough under Zinedine Zidane, contributing to the club's 2018 UEFA Champions League triumph.

Following a successful two-year stint at Borussia Dortmund, Hakimi's career continued to flourish at Inter Milan, where he played a crucial role in their 2021 Serie A championship campaign. His move to PSG in 2021 has yielded consecutive Ligue 1 titles in 2022, 2023, and 2024, cementing his status as a cornerstone of the team's success.

On the international stage, Hakimi has represented Morocco in multiple prestigious tournaments, including the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and several Africa Cup of Nations competitions. His performances have consistently demonstrated his ability to excel at the highest level of professional football.

The praise from Luis Enrique, who took charge of PSG in July 2023, carries particular weight given the Spanish coach's distinguished career, which includes a treble-winning season with Barcelona and leadership of the Spanish national team. Under Enrique's guidance, PSG continues its pursuit of European football's highest honors, with Hakimi playing an instrumental role in their ambitious campaign.