Achraf Hakimi has seen his performances dip significantly this season at Paris Saint-Germain, marking a stark contrast to the Morocco international's reputation as one of Europe's elite full-backs. The 27-year-old right-back, once a dominant force in Ligue 1 and the Champions League, has managed just one goal and five assists so far in 2026, well below his previous standards.
The Injury Factor
Two serious injuries during the previous campaign have fundamentally disrupted Hakimi's rhythm. A severe ankle injury followed by knee tendon problems sidelined him for 80 days across 22 matches. While he has returned to action, the physical toll remains evident. His high-intensity running capacity—once a hallmark of his game—persists, yet his physical dominance and precision in final passes have noticeably diminished for the first time in his career.
Manager Luis Enrique has adopted a cautious approach, planning specific rest periods for the defender to manage his workload and prevent further setbacks. This load-management strategy aims to restore Hakimi to peak condition without risking another injury.
Tactical Instability and Partnership Breakdown
Compounding his physical struggles is tactical uncertainty on PSG's wing. Hakimi has rotated through multiple attacking partners—Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Bradley Barcola, Lee Kang-in, and Myles Akliouche—without establishing the fluid understanding necessary for success. The seamless connection he built with Dembélé during the 2024-25 season has evaporated.
- Inconsistent wing partner rotation disrupts tactical cohesion
- Technical errors in passing have increased noticeably
- Poor decision-making contributed to PSG's recent 1-2 defeat to Monaco
- Loss of attacking precision under defensive pressure
Off-Field Pressures Mount
Beyond the pitch, Hakimi carries substantial personal weight. In June, the Versailles Court of Appeal upheld his referral to criminal court over rape accusations from February 2023. He has since appealed to the Court of Cassation, with a decision expected in October and a trial potentially scheduled within 12 to 18 months. Sources close to the player claim he remains composed during this ordeal, but the legal battle undoubtedly weighs on his concentration and mental state.
Despite these setbacks, PSG's technical staff are not alarmed. They recognize Hakimi requires regular match time to rediscover his form and are committed to a gradual rehabilitation. As the club faces Champions League challenges ahead, restoring their star right-back to full effectiveness remains a critical priority for the Ligue 1 leaders.
