Achraf Hakimi Mouh, a name synonymous with electrifying pace, exceptional skill, and unwavering determination, has meticulously sculpted a remarkable career in the highest echelons of world football. From his modest beginnings in Madrid to becoming a cornerstone for Europe’s footballing giants and a national icon for Morocco, Hakimi’s journey is a powerful narrative of talent, resilience, and the pivotal career choices that defined his trajectory. Widely acclaimed as one of the premier full-backs globally, his story is one of overcoming early rejections and consistently leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful game, most recently as a key architect in Paris Saint-Germain’s historic European triumph.
Blistering Speed: A Defining Trait
His incredible speed is universally recognized and has been a defining characteristic throughout his career. During his time in the Bundesliga, he officially set a speed record, being clocked at an astonishing 36.49 km/h (22.67 mph). This blistering pace has led many commentators and fans alike to marvel at his velocity, often describing him with terms that evoke rapid movement.
The Genesis of a Footballing Phenom: Early Life and Real Madrid Apprenticeship
Born in Madrid, Spain, on November 4, 1998, to Moroccan parents, Achraf Hakimi’s early years were imbued with the realities of an immigrant family striving for a better future. Growing up in the Getafe district of Madrid, his family navigated economic challenges; his father worked as a street vendor, and his mother dedicated herself to their home.
At the tender age of seven, after politely declining his mother’s suggestions of judo or swimming, his heart was irrevocably set on the football pitch. His structured footballing education commenced in 2005 at a local club, CD Colonia Ofigevi.
In 2006, a life-changing letter arrived – an invitation for a trial at Real Madrid. Initially met with skepticism by his family, Hakimi attended the trial and left an indelible impression on the scouts, securing a coveted place in La Fábrica, Real Madrid’s esteemed youth academy, at just eight years old.
Over the years, he diligently honed his craft, initially as a winger before transitioning to right-back, his future hallmark. He played for Real Madrid’s U19 in the UEFA Youth League and then graduated to Real Madrid Castilla in 2016. His senior debut for Castilla came on August 20, 2016, and he scored his first goal on September 25, 2016.
The Santiago Bernabéu Conundrum: Limited Opportunities and a Defining “Refusal”
The summer of 2017 marked Hakimi’s promotion to Real Madrid’s first team. He made his official senior debut on October 1, 2017, in a La Liga match against Espanyol. That season, he made 17 appearances and scored 2 goals, while being part of a squad that won:
- UEFA Super Cup
- FIFA Club World Cup
- Supercopa de España
However, regular starting opportunities were hard to come by with Dani Carvajal ahead of him. Although Zinedine Zidane recognized his potential, Hakimi sought more consistent playing time.
After a successful loan spell, Hakimi declined a contract extension from Real Madrid, seeking a club where he could be a guaranteed starter. Real Madrid, relying on Carvajal, could not offer this. His “refusal” was driven by a clear vision and astute understanding of his developmental needs.
Pivotal Career Shifts: Unleashing Potential Across Europe’s Elite Leagues
Borussia Dortmund (2018-2020): Breakout Loan Spell
In July 2018, Hakimi joined Borussia Dortmund on a two-year loan. There, he thrived with tactical freedom, showcasing breathtaking pace, dribbling, and attacking runs.
- 73 appearances
- 12 goals, 17 assists
- Played as right-back and right midfield
- Set Bundesliga speed record: 36.49 km/h
- Named in Bundesliga Team of the Year
- DFL-Supercup Winner (2019)
Notable moments included:
- Brace vs Slavia Prague in UCL
- Two goals vs Inter Milan
- Multiple Bundesliga Rookie of the Month awards
Inter Milan (2020-2021): Conquering Serie A
In September 2020, he signed with Inter Milan for around €40-€43 million.
Under Antonio Conte, Hakimi was deployed as an attacking wing-back, playing 45 matches, scoring 7 goals, and assisting 11 times.
He helped Inter win their first Scudetto in 11 years, showcasing maturity, tactical intelligence, and defensive discipline.
Paris Saint-Germain (2021–Present): Reaching New Summits
In July 2021, PSG signed Hakimi for €60–€70 million, offering him a five-year contract.
At PSG, he:
- Became a key figure
- Scored on his Ligue 1 debut
- Won:
- Multiple Ligue 1 titles
- Coupe de France
- Trophée des Champions
Praise from Coaches and a Place Among the Elite
Hervé Renard, Morocco’s former coach, called Hakimi:
- “The best in the world today at his position”
- Praised his “supersonic speed” and two-footedness
Renard noted a conversation with Lucien Favre (Dortmund coach) who doubted Hakimi’s training intensity but was later impressed by his match competitiveness.
Renard also noted Hakimi’s exceptional performance at the 2018 World Cup at just 19 years old.
Luis Enrique, PSG’s current coach, has also played a major role:
- Hakimi said: “He is the man who has changed everything at PSG. Since he came here, he has changed the way football is seen.”
- Called Enrique a “genius” and “loyal man”
- Enrique praised his versatility and attacking contributions.
Etching His Name in Footballing History: An Enduring Legacy
Redefining the Modern Full-Back
Hakimi is the quintessential modern full-back:
- Blistering speed
- Exceptional dribbling
- Goal-scoring threat
- Tactical versatility
A Beacon for Moroccan Football
Hakimi earned his senior cap at 17 (2016). He starred in:
- 2018 World Cup
- 2022 World Cup: Key in Morocco’s historic semi-final run
- Iconic “Panenka” penalty vs Spain
- Multiple AFCON tournaments
- Bronze medal at 2024 Paris Olympics
A Prolific Winner
Hakimi’s trophy haul includes:
- UEFA Champions League (Real Madrid 2017–18, PSG 2024–25)
- Serie A (Inter Milan 2020–21)
- Ligue 1 (multiple titles with PSG)
- DFL-Supercup (Borussia Dortmund 2019)
- Coupe de France (multiple titles with PSG)
- Trophée des Champions
- FIFA Club World Cup (Real Madrid 2017)
- UEFA Super Cup (Real Madrid 2017)
- Supercopa de España (Real Madrid 2017)
- Olympic Bronze Medal (Morocco 2024)
Individual Recognition
- African Youth Player of the Year (2018, 2019)
- Globe Soccer Awards Best Young Arab Player (2019)
- Named in:
- Bundesliga Team of the Year
- Serie A Team of the Year
- UEFA Champions League Breakthrough XI
- IFFHS Africa Team of the Year
The Crowning Glory with PSG: Architect of the European Dream
In the 2024–25 UEFA Champions League, Hakimi was decisive in PSG’s historic 5–0 final victory over Inter Milan, scoring the opening goal in the 12th minute.
He ended the campaign with four goals, helping deliver PSG’s first Champions League title, and marking his second personal UCL title after 2018 with Real Madrid.
The Ever-Unfolding Legacy of a Footballing Maverick
Achraf Hakimi’s journey is a testament to talent, ambition, and bold decision-making. From La Fábrica to serial European winner, from Moroccan hero to PSG superstar, he embodies the modern footballer.
As he continues to shine for PSG and Morocco, his story remains a source of inspiration, showing that with passion, discipline, and strategic choices, one can reach the very summit of world football.
