Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi defends Achraf Hakimi after World Cup criticism

Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has publicly defended captain Achraf Hakimi following criticism directed at the defender after the Atlas Lions’ quarter-final exit at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking during a press conference at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Ouahbi argued that expectations surrounding the Paris Saint-Germain full-back have become unrealistic and urged a more balanced assessment of his performances.

Hakimi has long been regarded as one of the world’s leading full-backs, with his pace, attacking runs and creativity making him one of Morocco’s most influential players.

However, following the national team’s elimination from the World Cup, the defender became the focus of criticism from some observers, with much of the debate centred on his attacking contribution.

Ouahbi believes that perspective has overlooked the fundamental responsibilities of the position.

The Morocco coach stressed that while Hakimi’s attacking qualities are widely recognised, a defender’s first responsibility is to perform effectively without the ball.

“Many people are talking about Hakimi. In ten years, we’ll say: ‘We had the best full-back in the world.’ But what do we ask of him? That he attack, that he score goals? He had to do his job defensively,” the Moroccan coach told reporters.

His comments were aimed at placing Hakimi’s performances into context rather than judging him solely on goals, assists or attacking influence.

Throughout his career, Hakimi has earned widespread recognition for combining defensive duties with an ability to contribute in the final third.

His speed and attacking instincts have often made him one of Morocco’s most dangerous outlets, while his versatility has allowed him to thrive at both club and international level.

Ouahbi, however, believes those strengths should not overshadow the core responsibilities of a full-back.

The coach suggested that expectations surrounding Morocco’s captain have at times become disproportionate, particularly given the demands placed on modern defenders.

He argued that evaluating Hakimi only through his attacking statistics risks ignoring the defensive work that remains central to his role on the pitch.

The coach’s defence of his captain comes after Morocco’s World Cup campaign ended in the quarter-finals, a result that prompted renewed scrutiny of several players.

Despite the criticism, Ouahbi made clear that Hakimi’s contribution should be judged in its entirety, insisting that the defender continues to fulfil the responsibilities expected of one of the world’s leading full-backs.