Moroccan coach Regragui prays for miracle recovery as ‘irreplaceable’ Achraf Hakimi races against time for 2025 AFCON

Morocco coach Walid Regragui says he is hopeful that captain Achraf Hakimi will make a miraculous recovery from his ankle injury in time for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Paris Saint-Germain full-back suffered a severe sprain against Bayern Munich, leaving fans fearing his tournament dream may be over.

Hakimi, one of PSG’s most consistent players this season, was stretchered off after a reckless challenge by Luis Díaz during the Champions League tie.

The 26-year-old has contributed three goals and seven assists in all competitions, underlining his importance to both club and country.

Medical tests revealed partial ligament damage in his left ankle, ruling him out for up to eight weeks.

Although surgery was not required, the timeline threatens his participation in Morocco’s opening AFCON fixture on December 21.

Regragui, however, has refused to give up hope.

“Achraf Hakimi is the first player I select on the list every time,” he said.

“I firmly believe he’s a player who can recover faster than others. Achraf will do everything he can to be at the AFCON. We will implement the best medical protocol to ensure he is back and at 100%.”

Morocco’s medical staff are working with PSG’s specialists to design a joint rehabilitation programme focused on progressive recovery and strengthening.

Part of Hakimi’s treatment will reportedly take place between Paris and Rabat, ensuring he remains connected to the national team setup.

Regragui described his captain as “irreplaceable,” citing his leadership, versatility, and impact on both ends of the pitch.

“He drives the group emotionally and tactically,” the coach added. “For us Moroccans, he is the best player in the world.”

If Hakimi is not fit for the opening stages, Manchester United’s Noussair Mazraoui is expected to step in.

Regragui remains confident Morocco can cope, though Hakimi’s influence is unmatched.

With the Atlas Lions hosting the AFCON for the first time in four decades, his presence—whether on the field or the sidelines—will remain central to Morocco’s hopes of ending their 49-year title drought.