Hakimi – the Moroccan right-back who has emerged as one of the most dynamic figures in world football – has not only been in the headlines for his performance on the pitch but also due to his highly publicised personal life and social media presence. In recent years, Achraf Hakimi’s name has frequently trended across YouTube, Google searches, Quora threads, X (formerly Twitter), and Meta platforms, with fans dissecting everything from his club career to his legal battles, marriage and international success.

From Real Madrid’s academy to playing for top European giants like Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, and now Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Hakimi has captivated audiences with his blistering pace, positional intelligence, and resilience. But beyond football, his marriage with Hiba Abouk and subsequent legal dispute during their divorce has sparked viral debates and memes, especially on social platforms such as X and Instagram. This article takes a deep dive into Hakimi’s journey, public image, footballing stats, and the reasons why he’s one of the most searched footballers of the decade.

Early life and football beginnings

Achraf Hakimi Mouh was born to Moroccan parents in Madrid in 1998 and grew up in the Getafe district. Despite being raised in Spain, his heritage remained close to his heart, and he later chose to represent Morocco at the international level, a decision that would define his career.

At eight years old, Hakimi enrolled in Real Madrid’s youth academy. He quickly progressed through the ranks and made his debut for the senior team in 2017 under manager Zinedine Zidane. Though his appearances for Madrid’s first team were limited, his potential was undeniable, prompting a two-year loan move to Borussia Dortmund that would catapult him into global stardom.

Club career evolution and achievements

At Borussia Dortmund, Hakimi thrived. Playing primarily as a wing-back under Lucien Favre, he became known for his blistering speed and attacking prowess. In the 2019–20 season, he was among the Bundesliga’s top assist providers and even scored memorable goals in the UEFA Champions League.

After achieving success in Germany, Hakimi reportedly paid €40 million to join Inter Milan in 2020. At Inter, he formed a lethal partnership with Romelu Lukaku and helped the club win their first Serie A title in over a decade. His performances caught the attention of PSG, who signed him in July 2021 for a reported €60 million.

At PSG, Hakimi has consistently featured as one of their top performers, combining well with the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Neymar. While his defensive work has sometimes come under scrutiny, his attacking output remains elite for a defender.

Morocco national team and World Cup heroics

Hakimi’s decision to represent Morocco has been instrumental in elevating the nation’s football profile. He’s been part of the senior squad since 2016 and has played in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

However, it was the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar that truly cemented his legendary status in Moroccan football. Morocco defied the odds by reaching the semi-finals – the first African nation to do so in World Cup history. Hakimi’s penalty against Spain in the Round of 16, where he cheekily chipped the ball into the net (a “Panenka”), became instantly iconic and was endlessly shared across X and TikTok.

The Hiba Abouk divorce saga and internet virality

While Hakimi’s football career has been commendable, much of his recent fame stems from his divorce proceedings with Spanish actress Hiba Abouk. The couple has two kids together and got married in 2020. Abouk filed for divorce in early 2023, claiming that they couldn’t agree.

The situation turned into a media frenzy when reports (later clarified and partially debunked) circulated claiming that Hakimi had all his assets registered under his mother’s name. Many users on X and YouTube praised his “financial foresight,” turning him into a hero of financial prudence. Hashtags like #HakimiSmart and #MenLearnFromHakimi trended globally.

Though the full legal truth is more nuanced – including legal obligations, shared assets, and child support laws – the story resonated widely with audiences, particularly among young men, turning Hakimi into a cultural icon far beyond the football world.

Social media impact and fanbase on X Meta and YouTube

Hakimi has cultivated a powerful online presence. On Instagram, he boasts over 15 million followers, regularly posting behind-the-scenes training photos, vacation snaps with fellow players, and promotional content. On X, he is a frequent topic of discussion, often trending during matches, relationship updates, or viral posts involving his fashion and philanthropy.

A recent Meta Reel featuring Hakimi training with Mbappé reached over 10 million views, while a YouTube short of his penalty against Spain gathered over 25 million hits. His blend of on-field brilliance and off-field drama keeps fans engaged, and creators across platforms continuously produce content on his life, game style, and personal decisions.

On Quora, discussions range from “Is Hakimi the best right-back in the world?” to “How did Hakimi manage his divorce so cleverly?” His name consistently appears in trending football and lifestyle categories.

Playing style and tactical versatility

One of Hakimi’s greatest strengths is his versatility. Although naturally a right-back, he can operate as a wing-back or even a wide midfielder. He thrives in systems that allow overlapping runs, quick one-twos, and counter-attacking football. His speed is often unmatched; he clocked one of the fastest sprints in the 2022 World Cup, reaching 35 km/h.

At PSG, he’s been used in various formations under managers like Mauricio Pochettino and Luis Enrique. Whether it’s a 3-5-2 or a flat back four, Hakimi’s role often sees him providing width, stretching defences, and creating scoring opportunities. His link-up play with attacking midfielders and strikers is among the best in Europe for his position.

While some critics have pointed to occasional lapses in his defensive positioning, his contributions going forward make him a valuable asset in any modern football system.

Financial profile and endorsements

Hakimi’s move to PSG saw a significant jump in earnings. Reports suggest he earns around €10 million annually, excluding bonuses. He has lucrative endorsement deals with brands such as Adidas, Pepsi, and EA Sports. His image is featured in FIFA video games and global advertising campaigns.

His financial management became a talking point during his divorce scandal, and whether or not all claims were accurate, it spurred debates on athlete wealth protection, prenups, and marital contracts.

Philanthropy and off-field initiatives

Despite being at the centre of controversies, Hakimi remains active in charitable efforts. He has supported various initiatives in Morocco, including youth football development and healthcare access. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he donated medical supplies and funds to Moroccan hospitals.

His connection with his roots is strong, and he often speaks about the importance of giving back to his community. He’s also vocal about representing African excellence on a global stage and has become an inspiration for aspiring athletes from underrepresented regions.

Public image and media portrayal

Mainstream media often portrays Hakimi as a cool-headed, focused professional who handles pressure with ease. His calm demeanour in interviews contrasts with the fiery pace he shows on the field. However, his public image has been subject to fluctuation, especially after the divorce saga.

In 2023 and 2024, he was ranked among the most searched footballers globally, with spikes during the World Cup, club transfers, and personal news. Media outlets like BBC Sport, ESPN, and Goal.com regularly feature him in articles and opinion pieces, while fan channels on YouTube dissect his every move, both literal and metaphorical.

What’s next for Hakimi

Looking ahead, Hakimi’s future remains filled with opportunities. While his contract with PSG runs until 2026, rumours have circulated about interest from Premier League clubs, particularly Manchester United and Chelsea, who are reportedly keen to reinforce their right flank.

He will also continue playing a vital role for Morocco in upcoming international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers. As he enters his peak years, expectations around him remain high both in performance and personal growth.

Off the pitch, fans anticipate more insight into his life, possibly through documentaries or interviews. With Netflix and Amazon producing football-themed series more frequently, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Hakimi at the centre of one soon.

FAQs

What clubs has he played for and what titles has he won?

He began at Real Madrid (including Castilla), with a loan to Borussia Dortmund before moving to Inter Milan. In July 2021 he joined Paris Saint‑Germain. With PSG, he’s claimed four Ligue 1 titles (2022–25), two Coupe de France wins (2024–25), and most notably the UEFA Champions League in 2025, marking his second Champions League triumph after 2018 .

What is his current contract status and key performances?

In February 2025 he signed a long-term extension with PSG keeping him until June 2029 . This season has been career‑best, contributing nine goals and 14 assists with 23 goal involvements, especially shining in Champions League knockout rounds and scoring in the final against Inter .

Has he earned any individual accolades recently?

Yes, in May 2025 he was awarded the Marc‑Vivien Foe Prize as Ligue 1’s best African player, becoming the fourth Moroccan to win it . Moreover, he’s been included in CAF’s African Team of the Year and featured in UEFA’s Champions League Team of the Tournament.

What is trending about him on social media (X)?

He recently went viral on X (formerly Twitter) for celebrating a goal by copying streamer Ilyas El Maliki’s signature “violin” celebration during a PSG vs Lyon match, reflecting how sports and digital culture intersect . Additionally, tweets showed him celebrating Eid al‑Fitr at a Casablanca orphanage, winning praise for blending professional success with cultural and social engagement .

Is he linked with any major transfers or international highlights?

No major transfer is imminent—PSG secured him with a 2029 contract—and Real Madrid interest is considered unlikely this summer . Internationally, he captains Morocco, earning over 85 caps, played crucial roles in the 2018/2022 World Cups, the 2024 Paris Olympics (where Morocco earned bronze), and helped Morocco reach the 2022 World Cup semis .

In Summary

Hakimi’s journey is one of grit, glamour, and global recognition. From the streets of Madrid to the World Cup semi-finals and beyond, he has managed to balance a high-profile football career with personal challenges that captured the public imagination. His name has become synonymous not only with pace and power but also with intelligent decisions, whether on or off the field.

As debates continue on X about his legacy, and fans share highlight reels across Meta and YouTube, Hakimi has firmly established himself as more than just a footballer – he’s a modern-day icon, cultural touchpoint, and inspiration for millions around the world.

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