Achraf Hakimi set for PSG return in European Super Cup against Aston Villa

Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi has been included in Paris Saint-Germain’s squad for Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup meeting with Aston Villa.

PSG coach Luis Enrique has called up Hakimi and several of the club’s French internationals despite the players having only recently returned to first-team training following an extended break.

Hakimi resumed training with PSG on Monday, meaning he will have had only around 48 hours of collective preparation before the European showpiece in which the Champions League holders face the Europa League winners.

Hakimi returns after individual programme

The Morocco international spent his break following an individual fitness programme designed by Enrique and his coaching staff.

The programme was intended to ensure players remained in good physical condition during their holidays and could make a quick transition back into team training.

Hakimi’s individual work has helped facilitate his return, allowing Enrique to include him in the squad despite the limited time he has spent training with his team-mates.

The PSG squad also features French internationals Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, Lucas Hernández and Warren Zaïre-Emery, who are also returning after extended rest periods.

New signings included

Enrique has also selected PSG’s new arrivals for the Super Cup, including Maghnes Akliouche and Lucas Digne.

Third-choice goalkeeper Longoni is also part of the squad for the match.

The inclusion of Hakimi will be particularly significant for Moroccan supporters, with the right-back returning to action as PSG begin their campaign with another opportunity to add European silverware.

PSG face Aston Villa

PSG head into the match as reigning UEFA Champions League winners, while Aston Villa earned their place after winning the UEFA Europa League.

The two European champions will meet on Wednesday, 12 August, with the Super Cup offering both clubs an early opportunity to claim silverware at the start of the new season.

For Hakimi, the fixture could mark the beginning of another campaign at the heart of PSG’s ambitions on the domestic and European stage.