Achraf Hakimi: Athlete's Biography

Club Career

Real Madrid

Hakimi made his debut for Real Madrid's first team during the 2016 International Champions Cup, facing Paris Saint-Germain. He primarily played for the B team, but his senior debut followed on 20 August 2016, in a 3–2 victory against Real Sociedad B. Promoted to the main squad in August 2017, Hakimi scored his first La Liga goal in a dominant 5–0 win over Sevilla on 9 December 2017. He contributed to Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League success in the 2017–18 season, adding to their illustrious record.

Loan to Borussia Dortmund

On 11 July 2018, Hakimi embarked on a two-year loan with Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga, where he made an immediate impact. His first goal for Dortmund came in a resounding 7–0 triumph against 1. FC Nürnberg on 27 September 2018. Known for his lightning speed, Hakimi set a Bundesliga speed record in 2020, clocking 36.48 km/h. In addition to domestic success, he delivered brilliant performances in the Champions League, notably with a brace against Inter Milan in 2019.

Inter Milan

Hakimi transferred to Inter Milan on 2 July 2020, where his contribution was pivotal in securing the Serie A title in the 2020–21 season, ending Inter's 11-year wait. His ability to both score and assist made him an invaluable asset in their campaign.

Paris Saint-Germain

Signing with Paris Saint-Germain in July 2021 for a reported fee of €68 million, Hakimi quickly became an integral part of the team. He scored on his Ligue 1 debut on 7 August against Troyes. His first season culminated in a Ligue 1 title, followed by consecutive successes in the Trophée des Champions and Coupe de France.

National Team Career

Youth National Teams

Demonstrating his versatility and skill early on, Hakimi represented Morocco at various youth levels, including under-17 and under-20 teams before advancing to the under-23 side.

Senior National Team

Hakimi debuted for Morocco's senior team on 11 October 2016. He participated in the FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations multiple times. His remarkable penalty against Spain in the 2022 World Cup enabled Morocco to reach the tournament's semi-finals, a historic feat for an African nation.

Achraf Hakimi, renowned for his exceptional prowess as a right-back or right winger, is celebrated worldwide as one of the preeminent full-backs in modern football. Currently playing for Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain and the Morocco national team, Hakimi's career is marked by significant achievements, including titles in Italy's Serie A and France's Ligue 1, as well as ground-breaking performances on the international stage with Morocco.

Achievements

Team Achievements

• UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid (2017–18)
• Serie A with Inter Milan (2020–21)
• Multiple Ligue 1 titles with Paris Saint-Germain
• Bronze medal in the 2024 Olympic Games with Morocco

Individual Achievements

• African Youth Player of the Year (2018, 2019)
• Numerous team of the year honors across leagues
• FIFA FIFPRO World 11 (2022)

Awards and Recognition

Hakimi has been recognized for his sportsmanship and influence in football, receiving accolades like the Lion d'Or African Footballer of the Year in 2024.

Career Overview

Hakimi's career can be characterized by his trailblazing role as a Moroccan international shining in prestigious clubs worldwide, breaking speed records, and contributing vital performances on both domestic and international platforms.

Off the Field

Recognized for his cultural roots, Hakimi balances a professional football career with commercial ventures and commitments, maintaining a strong public image enhanced by his multilingual capabilities.

Personal Life

Achraf Hakimi was married to Spanish actress Hiba Abouk, with whom he has two sons. His personal life came into the spotlight amid divorce proceedings in 2023, further emphasized by his involvement in professional development and social contributions. A stadium in Ksar el-Kebir, Morocco, was named in his honor following his notable World Cup performances.