Ivorian legend Yaya Toure hails Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi as one of Africa’s best

Slovan Bratislava coach Yaya Toure has described Morocco international Achraf Hakimi as one of Africa’s finest players, and possibly the best, after watching the full-back in action against Paris Saint-Germain.

The former Ivory Coast international singled out Hakimi for praise after PSG’s 6-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday, highlighting the Moroccan’s performances and influence since joining the French champions.

“For me, Achraf is one of the best players in Africa, if not the best. Considering what he has delivered over the past two years with Paris, it’s truly impressive,” Toure said.

Toure impressed by Hakimi’s performances

Hakimi has established himself as one of the leading African players in European football, with his attacking contribution and consistency making him a key figure for the French champions.

Although Toure admitted that he does not know the defender personally, he said conversations with Moroccan players who have shared the dressing room with Hakimi had reinforced his view of the player’s quality.

“On a personal level, I don’t know him directly, but I’ve heard about him through many of my Moroccan friends who play alongside him. He is an exceptional player,” he added.

Toure also praised Hakimi’s attitude and commitment, pointing to qualities beyond his performances on the pitch.

“Watching him play is a pleasure because he gives everything he has, always stays positive, and serves as a role model both on and off the pitch,” he stressed. “I can tell him that Paris Saint-Germain respected us, because they played with full seriousness.”

PSG punish Slovan Bratislava

Hakimi’s PSG side produced a commanding attacking display to secure a convincing victory over Toure’s Slovan Bratislava.

The French champions scored six times, with Ferran Torres completing a second-half hat-trick after Ousmane Dembele had struck twice early in the game.

Fabian Ruiz added another goal late on, while Suleiman Camara scored Slovan Bratislava’s only response.

The result underlined PSG’s attacking strength and provided the backdrop for Toure’s glowing assessment of Hakimi, who continues to be regarded as one of the standout representatives of African football on the European stage.