Achraf Hakimi Set to Join Morocco for 2019 Africa Cup of Nations After Injury Recovery
Morocco has received a major boost ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations as defender Achraf Hakimi is set to travel to Egypt following his recovery from injury. The Borussia Dortmund star, who fractured his right metatarsal two months ago, has successfully returned to full fitness and will join the Atlas Lions for the upcoming tournament.
Hakimi resumed running ten days ago in Murcia, Spain, and has since completed his rehabilitation. The Moroccan international expressed his gratitude to the medical staff at the Innova Institute, who oversaw his recovery and ensured he would be ready to compete at the highest level. “I am happy to announce that I have fully recovered from my injury. I would like to thank the medical staff at the Innova Institute for their great work. My next challenge is to help the national team at the AFCON,” Hakimi wrote on social media.
The 21-year-old right-back has been pre-selected by coach Hervé Renard for Morocco’s training camp, which begins on June 4th. This gives Hakimi just under three weeks to regain match fitness and integrate into the team ahead of Morocco’s first group-stage match against Namibia on June 23rd.
Hakimi’s presence is a significant relief for the Atlas Lions, who rely heavily on his pace, attacking runs, and defensive versatility. Despite missing crucial matches during his recovery, the young full-back’s return strengthens Morocco’s chances of performing well in Group D, alongside Namibia, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa.
The Moroccan squad will use the upcoming training camp and friendly matches to fine-tune tactics and build chemistry, allowing Hakimi to regain his rhythm and timing on the pitch. His recovery marks the latest positive development for Hervé Renard, who has been carefully managing his squad to ensure all key players are fit and ready for the tournament.
Hakimi’s resilience and rapid return from injury underline his determination to contribute to Morocco’s quest for continental glory. With the Africa Cup of Nations fast approaching, the Atlas Lions now have one of their most dynamic defenders back in action, ready to make an impact on Egypt’s biggest football stage.
Morocco will be eager to leverage Hakimi’s attacking ability and defensive solidity as they aim to challenge for the AFCON 2019 title, with fans hopeful that the Dortmund star can help the team advance deep into the competition.
