PROFILE | The World Cup proved PSG’s Achraf Hakimi remains an elite full-back

This profile is taken from the 2022 GFFN 100, Get Football’s leading publication to be released at the end of the month, counting down French football’s 100 best players in 2022.

Arriving in the 2021 summer window alongside Sergio Ramos and Lionel Messi, a lot was expected of Achraf Hakimi at Paris Saint-Germain. The marauding right-sided defender was pivotal to Inter Milan’s Scudetto win under Antonio Conte and was ranked as one of the best wing-backs in world football. However, struggles in adjusting to a new league and a new formation – four at the back was coach Mauricio Pochettino’s preference – meant Hakimi’s first season in Ligue 1 could be considered underwhelming.

The Moroccan was restricted by Pochettino’s system and never really showed the flying, attacking ability seen during his time in Serie A and Germany with Borussia Dortmund. At times it felt as if a lack of fluidity in PSG’s famed front three also restricted Hakimi. Messi clogged up the right flank and rarely allowed Hakimi to do what he does best. He looked uncomfortable in a back four and played it safe. That carried on into 2022 and the end of last season.

Enter Christophe Galtier. PSG’s new coach implemented a back three with wing-backs almost immediately, much to the benefit of both Hakimi and Nuno Mendes on the left flank. The 24-year-old looked more assured and more comfortable in a system he was suited to and, with the front three playing more centrally, it freed up the right wing for Hakimi. His carries per 90 minutes have improved drastically, as well as his expected assists per 90 as he covers every blade of grass on PSG’s right wing.

Hakimi looks happier and more like the player PSG thought they signed last summer. An incredible World Cup showing for semi-finalists Morocco as the best right-back in the competition – ironically, in a back four – and has helped him achieve hero status in his home country too. Hakimi will return to his club after the World Cup filled with confidence and with his sights set on Paris’ first Champions League title.

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Tom Scholes | GFFN

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