Achraf Hakimi’s exceptional contributions this season have earned him the spotlight in French sports daily L’Équipe, which detailed why the Moroccan international has become indispensable to Paris Saint-Germain under coach Luis Enrique.
The publication highlighted Hakimi’s remarkable influence, stating, “Rarely in the history of PSG has a right-back been as impactful in the game as Achraf Hakimi.”
This season, his performances have been nothing short of stellar, showcasing a combination of speed, physicality, and stamina that sets him apart.
Blistering Speed
Hakimi’s extraordinary pace has been a standout feature. Clocked at a top speed of 36.5 km/h, he ranks as the second-fastest player in this season’s Champions League, trailing only Erling Haaland (36.6 km/h) and edging out teammate Kylian Mbappé (35.7 km/h).
This ability allows him to excel both defensively and offensively, covering large distances quickly and tracking back when needed.
Former Morocco coach Hervé Renard praised his athleticism, saying, “Hakimi has the same top speed as attackers, which makes him an exceptional athlete.”
His former defensive partner in the Moroccan national team, Romain Saïss, added, “At the beginning, I told him to be cautious with his high positioning, but he knew his speed would always allow him to recover.”
Physical and Tactical Evolution
L’Équipe also underscored Hakimi’s physical transformation during his time at Inter Milan, which strengthened his ability to handle the demands of top-flight football.
This physical development complements his tactical intelligence, enabling him to balance defensive duties with an advanced role in PSG’s attack.
With an average of 10.5 kilometers covered per game and the ability to execute crucial accelerations even in stoppage time, Hakimi consistently demonstrates exceptional stamina and work rate.
Attacking Contributions
Hakimi’s offensive output has been equally impressive. With a pass completion rate of 82%, he has already registered seven assists and scored four goals across all competitions this season.
His ability to create and capitalize on opportunities makes him a critical asset in PSG’s lineup.
Hakimi’s dynamic performances have solidified his status as one of PSG’s most important players.
As L’Équipe concludes, his blend of speed, endurance, and technical skill makes him a cornerstone of Luis Enrique’s system and one of the best right-backs in modern football.
