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Rabat – Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi believes he will be ready to play in the opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Morocco will host from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
According to French newspaper L’Équipe, Hakimi is convinced he can recover in time to face Comoros in Morocco’s first game.
Yet his club, Paris Saint-Germain, is more cautious. PSG doctors and staff think Hakimi may not be at 100% fitness by the start of the continental tournament and prefer to manage his return carefully.
Hakimi has been racing against time since suffering a serious ankle injury on November 4, during a Champions League match against Bayern Munich. Since then, he has followed a strict rehabilitation program designed to prepare him for AFCON.
The injury was considered significant, but Hakimi’s determination and discipline have given hope that he can return sooner than expected.
This situation reflects the tension that often arises between national teams and clubs. Hakimi is a key player for Morocco, not only one of the best defenders in Africa but also a leader on the pitch.
His presence in the opening match would boost morale and strengthen the squad.
For PSG, however, the priority is the player’s long-term health and availability for the rest of the season as his club chases another European Champions League after last year’s historic triumph.
Hakimi’s importance goes beyond this tournament. He was a standout performer at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, helping Morocco reach the semi-finals, the first African team ever to do so.
His attacking runs and defensive reliability have made him one of the most respected full-backs in world football.
As AFCON approaches, Moroccan fans are eager to see Hakimi back in action. The opening game against Comoros will be closely watched, not only for the team’s performance but also for whether Hakimi can make his comeback on home soil.
