Achraf Hakimi has joined an exclusive club of African Champions League legends. The Paris Saint-Germain captain reached his 78th appearance in Europe's premier club competition during PSG's opening league-phase fixture against Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday, matching the historic milestone set by Samuel Eto'o.
Hakimi's journey through the Champions League spans four elite European clubs. The Moroccan defender began his continental odyssey at Real Madrid, where he developed under one of football's most demanding systems. He later featured for Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, and currently PSG under Luis Enrique's direction. This path across multiple top-tier leagues showcases his adaptability and consistency at the highest level.
The African Elite in Champions League History
Hakimi now stands third among African players with the most Champions League appearances, level with Cameroon's Eto'o, who graced the competition while representing Real Madrid, Barcelona, and other prestigious clubs. The rankings tell a compelling story of African excellence in Europe:
- Mohamed Salah (Egypt) leads with 98 appearances for Liverpool and current club Trabzonspor
- Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast) ranks second, the former Chelsea stalwart who dominated Champions League knockout stages
- Achraf Hakimi and Samuel Eto'o share third place with 78 appearances each
Salah's commanding position at the top underscores his consistency throughout his European career. The Egyptian winger-turned-striker maintained a relentless presence in Champions League campaigns, particularly during his transformative years at Liverpool, where he became a cornerstone of their 2018-19 title run.
Hakimi's milestone arrives during a transitional period for PSG, who are navigating a rebuilt squad under Enrique's tactical philosophy. The Moroccan international continues to anchor the club's defensive structure while contributing in possession, embodying the modern full-back role that balances defensive solidity with attacking involvement. With PSG focused on Champions League ambitions and domestic dominance, Hakimi's experience could prove invaluable as the competition progresses through its new league-phase format.
