Luis Enrique shows confidence in Hakimi

Achraf Hakimi is expected to join the Moroccan national team gathering despite his right thigh injury. Asked after Paris Saint-Germain’s victory on the pitch of Olympique de Marseille (1-2), Luis Enrique expressed calm regarding the situation of his full-back, who has been called up by Mohamed Ouahbi for the upcoming fixtures of the Atlas Lions.

When questioned about a possible decision made with the Moroccan selection regarding the player, the Parisian coach quickly dismissed the idea of any disagreement. “My decision? No decision. I have complete confidence in Hakimi,” Luis Enrique explained at the press conference. He then reminded that the Moroccan will not be able to participate in the next international match due to his suspension. “He cannot play the next international match. I think he is sanctioned.” 

Hakimi must indeed serve a suspension imposed by the African Football Confederation following the incidents that occurred during the CAN 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal. The CAF had sanctioned the captain of the Atlas Lions with two official matches, one of which is suspended for a year, for unsportsmanlike behavior. He will therefore miss one firm match. 

PSG and Morocco in contact

Luis Enrique also emphasized the existing communication between PSG and the Moroccan staff regarding Hakimi’s physical condition. “We have a connection with the Moroccan national team to know his status,” he specified, before recalling the importance that the national team represents for the players. The Spaniard also assures that he is in favor of his departure with Morocco, while excluding any unnecessary risk. 

“I am happy that he can go and we do not want to take any risks because the first thing we seek to have is the best health for the players,” continued the Parisian coach. This position suggests that the defender’s recovery will be jointly monitored by PSG and the Moroccan medical staff. 

Hakimi still in recovery phase

Injured in his right thigh during PSG’s trip to Brest, Hakimi was not sufficiently recovered to participate in the Classique against Marseille. He was not included in the Parisian squad for this match of the 5th round of Ligue 1. 

His presence with the Atlas Lions does not necessarily mean an immediate return to competition. His suspension will at least allow him to continue his recovery work before considering a return, depending on the evolution of his injury.

Luis Enrique does not seem to have any concerns regarding the management of the player with Morocco. The Spanish coach shows complete confidence in Hakimi and relies on the coordination between the two staffs to gradually support his return to the pitch.