Achraf Hakimi is a name that resonates with blistering pace, offensive prowess, and defensive solidity in the world of modern football. Born on November 4, 1998, in Madrid, Spain, to Moroccan parents, Hakimi has emerged as one of the most exciting and influential right-backs of his generation. His journey from Real Madrid’s youth academy to becoming a key figure for Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team is a testament to his dedication, versatility, and exceptional talent. This article delves into his career, playing style, recent achievements, and what makes him a standout player in 2025.

Understanding the Role of a Modern Full-Back

In contemporary football, the role of a full-back has evolved significantly. Traditionally, full-backs were primarily defensive players tasked with nullifying opposition wingers. However, the modern game demands much more. Full-backs like Hakimi are now crucial in both attack and defense, providing width, making overlapping runs, delivering crosses, and even contributing goals, all while maintaining their defensive responsibilities. They are often seen as “wing-backs” or “inverted full-backs,” operating high up the pitch and influencing the game in various ways.

Achraf Hakimi’s Journey: A Step-by-Step Rise to Stardom

Hakimi’s career path showcases a deliberate progression, allowing him to hone his skills and gain invaluable experience at various top clubs:

Real Madrid (Youth and Senior Debut): Hakimi joined Real Madrid’s youth academy at just seven years old in 2006. He progressed through the ranks, making his senior debut in October 2017 under Zinedine Zidane. While he showed glimpses of his potential, regular first-team opportunities were limited in a star-studded squad. He made 17 appearances for the senior team, including winning the UEFA Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup in 2017-18.

Borussia Dortmund (Loan Spell, 2018-2020): His two-year loan spell at Borussia Dortmund proved to be a pivotal moment. In the Bundesliga, Hakimi truly exploded onto the scene. He was given more attacking freedom, and his blistering pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal made him one of the most feared attacking full-backs. 

During this period, he netted 12 goals in 73 appearances and provided numerous assists, often linking up effectively with players like Jadon Sancho and Erling Haaland. His performances earned him accolades like the Bundesliga Rookie of the Month multiple times and a place in the Bundesliga Team of the Year for 2019-20.

Inter Milan (2020-2021): After his successful loan at Dortmund, Hakimi moved to Inter Milan for a reported fee of €43 million. In his single season with Inter, he was instrumental in their Serie A title triumph, scoring 7 goals and providing 8 assists in 37 appearances. His attacking impetus was a key factor in Inter’s success, showcasing his ability to adapt to different tactical systems.

Paris Saint-Germain (2021-Present): In July 2021, Paris Saint-Germain secured Hakimi’s services for a reported €68 million. At PSG, he has continued to thrive, forming a formidable partnership on the right flank and contributing significantly to the team’s domestic dominance. 

As of June 2025, he has won four consecutive Ligue 1 titles (2021-22, 2022-23, 2023-24, 2024-25), two Coupe de France titles (2023-24, 2024-25), and three Trophée des Champions (2022, 2023, 2024). Notably, he was part of the PSG squad that won their first-ever UEFA Champions League title in the 2024-2025 season. His link-up play with Kylian Mbappé has been particularly dangerous, utilizing their combined speed to devastating effect.

Playing Style and Key Strengths

Achraf Hakimi’s playing style is characterized by:

Exceptional Pace and Stamina: He possesses elite acceleration and top-end speed, allowing him to bomb forward on the right flank and track back defensively with remarkable recovery runs.

Attacking Prowess: Hakimi is a constant threat in the final third. His excellent dribbling skills, precise passing, and powerful shot make him a genuine offensive weapon. He is adept at making overlapping runs, delivering dangerous crosses, and cutting inside to create scoring opportunities.

Versatility: While primarily a right-back, Hakimi’s attributes allow him to seamlessly operate as a right wing-back or even a right winger, offering tactical flexibility to his coaches.

Improved Defensive Awareness: Early in his career, his defensive positioning was sometimes cited as a weakness due to his attacking inclinations. However, he has significantly improved his defensive discipline, tackling, and one-on-one defending, becoming a more balanced and reliable full-back. As of the 2024/2025 Ligue 1 season, he has conceded 19 goals and kept 7 clean sheets in 25 matches, demonstrating his defensive contributions.

Recent Trends (as of 2025)

As of June 2025, Achraf Hakimi remains a central figure for PSG and Morocco. His consistent high-level performances have solidified his reputation as one of the world’s best right-backs. Recent trends indicate his continued importance in PSG’s pursuit of both domestic and European glory. 

With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled from December 2025 to January 2026, PSG will likely seek a reliable deputy for Hakimi, highlighting his indispensable presence in the squad. His participation in the 2024 Summer Olympics, where he served as captain for Morocco’s Olympic team, further underscores his leadership qualities and national importance.

Real-Life Examples of Impact

2022 FIFA World Cup: Hakimi was a pivotal player in Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals, the best finish ever for an African nation. His iconic “Panenka” penalty against Spain in the Round of 16 became one of the tournament’s most memorable moments, showcasing his composure under pressure.

Serie A Title with Inter Milan (2020-21): His goal contributions and overall attacking impact were crucial in Inter Milan breaking Juventus’ dominance and winning their first Serie A title in over a decade.

UEFA Champions League Title with PSG (2024-25): His role in PSG’s historic Champions League triumph underscores his ability to perform on the biggest stage and contribute to elite team success.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Full-Backs

For young players aspiring to emulate Hakimi’s success as a modern full-back, here are some practical tips:

Develop Your All-Around Game: Focus on both attacking and defensive skills. Work on your crossing, dribbling, passing range, as well as tackling, positioning, and aerial duels.

Prioritize Physical Fitness: Pace, stamina, and agility are paramount for a modern full-back. Incorporate drills that enhance these attributes into your training.

Study the Game: Watch how top full-backs operate, analyze their movements, and understand when to attack and when to defend.

Master Link-Up Play: Practice combining with wingers and central midfielders to create overloads and attacking opportunities.

Be Adaptable: Learn to play in different tactical systems (e.g., four-at-the-back, five-at-the-back) and understand how your role changes accordingly.

FAQ 

What is Achraf Hakimi’s current club in 2025?

As of June 2025, Achraf Hakimi plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

What are Achraf Hakimi’s main strengths as a football player?

Achraf Hakimi’s main strengths include his exceptional pace, stamina, attacking prowess (dribbling, crossing, shooting), and versatility to play as a right-back or wing-back. He has also significantly improved his defensive awareness and tackling.

How did Achraf Hakimi perform at the 2022 FIFA World Cup?

Achraf Hakimi was a key player for Morocco at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where they made a historic run to the semi-finals. He notably scored a “Panenka” penalty in the penalty shootout against Spain in the Round of 16, helping Morocco advance.

What is Achraf Hakimi’s injury history like?

Achraf Hakimi has had a relatively stable injury history. According to Transfermarkt, his past injuries include a metatarsal fracture in 2018-19 (67 days, 7 games missed), and some hamstring and ankle issues in more recent seasons, leading to minor spells on the sidelines. He also had a period of isolation due to COVID-19.

Final Thoughts

Achraf Hakimi represents the epitome of the modern full-back – a dynamic, influential player who contributes significantly at both ends of the pitch. His journey from Real Madrid’s academy to becoming a serial winner with PSG and a national hero for Morocco highlights his relentless drive and exceptional talent. 

As of 2025, he continues to be a crucial asset for his club and country, showcasing the evolving demands and exciting possibilities of the full-back position in contemporary football. His consistent performances and numerous accolades firmly establish him as one of the very best in his position globally.

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