Photo credit; Getty Images
Achraf Hakimi has been ruled out for several weeks after suffering a thigh injury during Paris Saint Germain dramatic Champions League clash against Bayern Munich. The setback comes at a crucial point in the season and means the influential full back will miss the decisive second leg of the semi final in Munich.
Hakimi played the full match in Paris as PSG secured a thrilling 5 4 victory in the first leg. During that game he made a significant impact, providing an assist for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as the French champions edged past the Bundesliga side in a high intensity encounter. Despite completing the match, it later emerged that the Morocco international had picked up a right thigh injury.
In an official statement, PSG confirmed that Hakimi would remain under treatment for the next few weeks. This effectively rules him out of the return leg scheduled for 6 May in Munich, a match that will determine who advances to the final of the competition. His absence is a major concern for manager Luis Enrique, given Hakimi’s consistent presence and importance in the squad.
The injury appeared to occur late in the match against Bayern, when Hakimi was seen clutching his hamstring. With PSG having already used all their substitutions, he continued playing through discomfort until the final whistle. His determination highlighted his commitment, but it may have worsened the situation.
This is not the first recent sign of physical trouble for Hakimi. He had been substituted at half time during PSG’s 3 0 Ligue 1 victory against Angers the previous weekend, raising early concerns about his fitness. However, he returned to the starting lineup against Bayern, suggesting the issue had not been considered serious at the time.
Hakimi has been one of PSG’s most reliable performers under Luis Enrique. His contributions have gone beyond defensive duties, often playing a key role in attack. Last season, he scored the opening goal in PSG’s dominant 5 0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final, a historic win that secured the club’s first European title.
On the international stage, Hakimi has also been vital for Morocco. He started every match during their remarkable run to the semi finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a campaign that made history for African football.
Beyond the immediate impact on PSG’s European ambitions, the timing of the injury raises concerns about Hakimi’s availability for the upcoming World Cup, which is set to begin in the United States, Canada and Mexico in just six weeks. While the club has not provided a precise recovery timeline, any extended absence could affect his readiness for international duty.
For now, PSG must prepare to face Bayern without one of their key players. Holding a narrow advantage from the first leg, the team will need to adapt quickly as they aim to secure their place in another Champions League final. Hakimi’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, both defensively and in the attacking transitions that have become a hallmark of PSG’s play.
