Achraf Hakimi is the best full-back in world football, according to Saudi Arabia head coach Herve Renard, following the Moroccan star’s starring role in Paris Saint-Germain’s emphatic UEFA Champions League triumph.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Telecom Asia, Renard reserved high praise for the 25-year-old defender after PSG crushed Inter Milan 5–0 in the final, with Hakimi opening the scoring on the night.
The former Morocco head coach, who gave Hakimi his senior international debut, said the full-back’s dazzling performances in Europe’s top competition underline his world-class quality.
“I don’t think there is a better full-back in football right now than Achraf Hakimi,” Renard said. “He’s a complete player, someone who can impact the game both defensively and offensively.
We saw what he did in the Champions League final — that just proves what I’ve always believed about his talent.”
Hakimi’s goal in the final set the tone for a dominant display by the French champions, as they cruised to a historic European title.
His energetic runs, sharp defensive instincts, and technical finesse were central to PSG’s commanding performance against the Italian giants.
For Renard, it was not just a moment of personal pride, but validation of Hakimi’s development since his early days with the Moroccan national team.
“I remember when I first called him up for the national team — he was young, but the talent was undeniable,” Renard added. “He’s matured incredibly over the years, playing at the highest level in Spain, Germany, Italy, and now France. Wherever he goes, he proves himself.”
Hakimi’s football journey has taken him through some of Europe’s top clubs, including Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, and Inter Milan, before joining PSG in 2021.
Renard, who coached Morocco between 2016 and 2019, believes that experience has shaped Hakimi into a more complete and mentally resilient player.
“His experiences across different leagues have helped him grow tremendously,” said Renard. “He has always been technically gifted, but now he has that maturity and tactical awareness that comes with playing in major competitions year after year.”
Renard’s admiration for Hakimi goes beyond the pitch. The Saudi Arabia coach praised the Moroccan defender for his leadership and professionalism, qualities he believes have helped inspire a new generation of African footballers.
“He’s a role model for so many young players, not only in Morocco but across the African continent,” said Renard. “He carries himself with humility, works hard, and always gives everything for his team. That’s why he’s reached the top.”
As Hakimi celebrates one of the biggest triumphs of his club career, Renard says he hopes the Moroccan star continues to shine and reach even greater heights in the years ahead.
“Winning the Champions League is a dream for every player, and Hakimi has done it while playing a decisive role,” he concluded. “There’s no doubt in my mind — he’s the best full-back in the world today.”
Read the original exclusive interview with Herve Renard on Telecom Asia.
