Rabat – Former Morocco head coach Walid Regragui shared a lighthearted exchange with Achraf Hakimi following Paris Saint-Germain’s 4-2 Champions League victory over Barcelona on Tuesday, teasing the Moroccan defender about his fatigue and recent lack of goals.
Appearing as a pundit on French broadcaster CANAL+, Regragui spoke directly to Hakimi during the defender’s post-match interview, much to the amusement of both.
When Hakimi admitted feeling exhausted after the match, Regragui jokingly challenged him.
“Since when do you feel tired, Achraf? You never get tired!” he said, before congratulating the defender on his performance.
Regragui then turned his attention to Hakimi’s attacking contribution.
“I was very happy with your assist, although you haven’t scored in a long time, Achraf,” he added.
Hakimi, who appeared delighted to hear from his former national team coach, acknowledged that he had been struggling to find the net despite creating opportunities.
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“It’s true that I haven’t scored in a while. Even today, I had chances to score, but the ball just wouldn’t go in,” the PSG defender replied.
The exchange followed an impressive performance from Hakimi, who provided the assist for Fabian Ruiz’s 86th-minute goal that sealed PSG’s victory at the Parc des Princes.
The result gave the defending European champions their third consecutive win in the Champions League league phase, while Barcelona suffered their first defeat of the season.
Regragui, who coached Hakimi during Morocco’s historic run to the 2022 World Cup semifinals, reassured the defender that his scoring touch would return.
“The goal will come. I’m not worried about you,” he said, before adding one final request: “You’re inviting me out for a meal this week. Don’t forget!”
Hakimi responded with a smile and a simple promise: “Inshallah.”
