2025 AFCON: We’ll do everything to make sure Achraf Hakimi is fit to play – Morocco coach Walid Regragui

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has offered reassurance over Achraf Hakimi’s fitness, insisting the medical team is working around the clock to have the star defender ready for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking at a press conference to announce his squad for this month’s friendlies, Regragui said the target is to have Hakimi available for the opening Group A match against Comoros on December 21.

“Let me be clear… We’ll do everything to make sure Achraf Hakimi is 100% fit to face Comoros in the opening match on December 21,” Regragui said.

Hakimi suffered a painful ankle injury on Tuesday after a forceful challenge from Bayern’s Luis Díaz, sparking fears he could miss the continental showpiece.

Reports suggest the PSG full-back sustained a syndesmosis rupture, an injury that typically requires up to six weeks of rehabilitation after an initial immobilisation period.

He is expected to sit out the remainder of 2025 with Paris Saint-Germain, although Spanish outlet Marca indicated he may avoid surgery.

Despite the concern, Regragui remains optimistic.

“If there’s one player who can come back quickly, it’s Achraf Hakimi. We have one of the best medical staffs in the world, as does PSG, with whom we maintain a strong partnership,” Regragui said.

Morocco will warm up for AFCON with friendlies against Mozambique on November 14 and Uganda on November 18.

Regragui’s squad features experienced figures such as goalkeepers Yassine Bounou and Mounir El Kajoui, defenders Nayef Aguerd and Noussair Mazraoui, and midfielders Bilal El Khannouss, Ismael Saibari, Sofyan Amrabat and Azzedine Ounahi.

In attack, Youssef En-Nesyri, Brahim Díaz and Hamza Igamae are among the notable inclusions.