Achraf Hakimi’s season has come to an abrupt and unfortunate end. Injured last Sunday during Borussia Dortmund’s league match against Wolfsburg, the Moroccan international has been diagnosed with a metatarsal fracture, an injury that will keep him sidelined until the conclusion of the current campaign. The news, confirmed by his club, represents a significant blow both for Dortmund and for Morocco, as questions now surround the player’s availability for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in June and July in Egypt.
The injury occurred at a cruel moment for Hakimi, who had only just come on as a substitute during the match. Forced to leave the pitch shortly afterward, medical examinations revealed the seriousness of the damage, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. A surgical operation is planned, after which the recovery process will begin. Given the nature of the injury and the relatively short time before the AFCON kicks off, many observers have expressed doubts about his chances of being fit in time for the continental showpiece.
Despite these concerns, Achraf Hakimi himself remains determined and optimistic. Far from resigning himself to missing the tournament, the young full-back has made it clear that wearing the Moroccan jersey at the Africa Cup of Nations remains a major objective. Speaking to Spanish radio station COPE, in comments relayed by Mountakhab, the Dortmund defender opened up about his state of mind and his ambitions.
“I’m sad. Thinking about my return scares me more than the operation itself,” Hakimi admitted, underlining the psychological challenge that comes with such an injury. However, his determination quickly resurfaced. “My intention is to try and play in the Africa Cup of Nations,” he added, making it clear that he is already looking beyond the setback and focusing on his recovery.
At just 20 years old at the time, Hakimi has already established himself as a key player for both club and country. His versatility, pace, and attacking contribution from the right flank have made him one of the most exciting Moroccan players of his generation. Under Hervé Renard, he has become an important part of the Atlas Lions’ setup, and his absence would undoubtedly be felt in Egypt. For Renard, the situation is delicate: while he will want to count on one of his most dynamic players, he will also need to ensure that Hakimi is fully fit and not rushed back too quickly.
The road to recovery will therefore be crucial. Much will depend on how Hakimi responds to surgery and rehabilitation in the coming weeks. Medical staff will closely monitor his progress, balancing his strong desire to return quickly with the need to avoid any risk of relapse. The Africa Cup of Nations is a physically demanding tournament, and returning too early from a foot fracture could have long-term consequences.
For now, Moroccan fans can only hope that Hakimi’s optimism is justified. His motivation, youth, and professionalism are all factors that work in his favor. If his recovery goes according to plan, he could yet make the trip to Egypt and strengthen Morocco’s ambitions at the tournament. Until then, uncertainty remains, but one thing is clear: Achraf Hakimi has not given up on his AFCON dream, and he will do everything in his power to be ready when the time comes.
