Achraf Hakimi hails Luis Enrique’s impact at PSG

Achraf Hakimi has praised Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique for reshaping how he is perceived in world football, highlighting the coach’s influence on his development as one of the game’s leading full-backs.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Moroccan international pointed to the Spanish coach’s tactical approach as a defining factor in his recent progress.

Hakimi, who has established himself as a key figure at PSG, suggested that Enrique’s methods have brought a new dimension to his game.

“I don’t know if he changed my career, but he changed the way the football world saw me and Nuno (Mendes) with his use of full-backs. I’m very happy. He showed us another way to play football. You can see it in my performances and also in Nuno’s,” Hakimi confessed.

À la veille du match retour d’UEFA Champions League face à Liverpool, Luis Enrique et Achraf Hakimi étaient en conférence de presse. 🗣️#LIVPSG I #UCL pic.twitter.com/QWYv8ENH6O

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) April 13, 2026

The remarks reflect the growing recognition Hakimi has received in recent months, as well as the broader impact of Luis Enrique’s system at the French club.

Known for his attacking style of play, the PSG coach has relied heavily on the contribution of full-backs, positioning them as central components in both defensive and offensive phases.

For Hakimi, this tactical framework appears to have provided the platform needed to showcase his strengths more consistently.

His ability to combine defensive duties with attacking runs has become a hallmark of his performances, drawing attention from observers across European football.

The Moroccan defender’s rise has been particularly notable in a role that often receives less individual recognition compared to attacking positions.

However, his recent achievements underline a shift in how full-backs are valued in the modern game.

Hakimi’s sixth-place finish in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings is a rare accomplishment for a player in his position.

The recognition highlights not only his individual performances but also the effectiveness of the system in which he operates.

Under Luis Enrique, PSG have adopted an approach that places significant emphasis on width and movement.

Full-backs are encouraged to push forward, create opportunities and contribute directly to attacking play.

This philosophy has allowed players like Hakimi and Nuno Mendes to expand their roles beyond traditional defensive responsibilities.

Hakimi’s comments suggest that this evolution has influenced how both players are viewed by the wider football community.

By adapting to the demands of the system, they have been able to demonstrate qualities that might previously have gone unnoticed.

The defender’s performances have also reinforced his importance within the PSG squad.

As one of the team’s most consistent players, he has played a key role in maintaining balance between defence and attack.

His development reflects a broader trend in modern football, where tactical innovation continues to redefine positional roles.

Coaches such as Luis Enrique have been instrumental in this process, introducing systems that maximise the potential of versatile players.

For Hakimi, the impact of these changes is evident in both his individual statistics and his overall influence on matches.

His ability to contribute in multiple phases of play has become a defining characteristic of his style.

The recognition he has received, including his Ballon d’Or ranking, serves as further confirmation of his standing among the game’s elite.

It also underscores the effectiveness of the environment in which he is currently playing.

While Hakimi was already regarded as a talented player before working with Luis Enrique, his recent performances suggest a period of continued growth.

The emphasis on tactical flexibility and attacking involvement has allowed him to refine his approach and deliver consistent displays.

His praise for the PSG manager highlights the importance of coaching in shaping a player’s trajectory.

By providing a system that suits his attributes, Luis Enrique has enabled Hakimi to reach a higher level of performance.

The defender’s comments also point to the collective nature of PSG’s approach, with players adapting to a shared vision.

The reference to Nuno Mendes indicates that the benefits of this system extend beyond individual cases.

As the season progresses, Hakimi’s role within the team is likely to remain central.

His ability to influence games from a wide position continues to be a valuable asset for PSG.

The evolution of his game, combined with the recognition he has achieved, reflects a period of significant progress.

With Luis Enrique’s tactical framework in place, Hakimi appears well positioned to maintain his status among the world’s top full-backs.