Hakimi’s PSG hat-trick earns glowing praise from Luis Enrique

Achraf Hakimi was described as “the best right-back in the world” by Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique after the Morocco international produced a decisive display in the 5-1 victory over Le Havre.

Hakimi scored three goals and provided two assists in Friday’s Ligue 1 meeting, helping Paris Saint-Germain secure a convincing win in the ninth round of the competition.

Luis Enrique said Hakimi had shown the qualities of a leader and that he was fully aware of the player’s ability to influence matches in attacking areas.

“He is closer to being a striker,” Luis Enrique said. “When we have the ball, he plays in advanced areas, but when we lose it, everyone becomes a defender. He is the best right-back in the world.”

The Paris Saint-Germain manager added that Hakimi’s most impressive quality was not simply scoring three times in one match. Instead, he highlighted the defender’s consistency and his readiness to contribute whenever the team needs him.

Luis Enrique said that willingness to maintain a high level and support the side was particularly important for Paris Saint-Germain.

Hakimi, however, rejected the suggestion that the match against Le Havre was the best of his career, despite scoring the first professional hat-trick of his career.

“It was a great evening,” the Morocco international said, while explaining that he had played in other matches that had been more significant and had affected him more emotionally.

The 27-year-old said he had made an excellent start to the season, but stressed that his contribution was not limited to scoring goals. He explained that his responsibilities changed according to the needs of each match and said he was satisfied with his performances so far.

Hakimi also confirmed that he had fully recovered from the injury he suffered last season. He said he felt in excellent physical condition and was ready to continue playing regularly.

The defender acknowledged his attacking role, saying he had been accustomed to operating in that position since he was young. At the same time, he recognised that his duties as a full-back also included providing defensive security for the team.

Hakimi dismissed the idea that injuries to several key players placed the extra burden on him alone. He said every member of the squad had to increase their efforts and insisted that Paris Saint-Germain were a complete team, with responsibility shared collectively.

Paris Saint-Germain’s upcoming schedule includes a Champions League match against Villarreal on 03 November 2026, followed by a Ligue 1 fixture against Lorient on 08 November 2026.