Paris St-Germain full-back Achraf Hakimi has been ruled out for “the next few weeks” due to a right thigh injury, a significant blow that casts a shadow over the club’s Champions League aspirations and raises serious concerns about his fitness for the upcoming World Cup.
The injury was sustained during PSG’s recent Champions League semi-final first leg against Bayern Munich. The club confirmed the diagnosis in a statement, noting, “Having suffered a right thigh injury during the match against Bayern, Hakimi will remain in treatment for the next few weeks.” Hakimi had previously been substituted at half-time during PSG’s 3-0 Ligue 1 victory over Angers last weekend but returned to the starting line-up for the crucial European fixture.
Crucial absence for Champions League semi-final
Hakimi’s absence is a major setback for Luis Enrique’s side as they prepare for the decisive Champions League semi-final second leg against Bayern Munich in Germany on May 6. PSG, the reigning European champions, secured a narrow 5-4 victory in the first leg in Paris, a match in which Hakimi played a pivotal role. He completed the full 90 minutes and provided an assist for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Despite pulling up clutching his hamstring in the closing stages, he remained on the pitch as PSG had already exhausted their substitutions, highlighting his commitment even while carrying the injury.
As an ever-present figure for PSG, Hakimi’s blend of attacking prowess and defensive solidity is integral to their system. His contributions were key to the club’s maiden European triumph last season, where he scored the opening goal in their 5-0 final victory over Inter Milan.
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Morocco’s World Cup hopes on edge
Beyond his club commitments, the timing of Hakimi’s injury presents a worrying scenario for the Morocco national team. The World Cup is set to begin in the United States, Canada, and Mexico in just six weeks. Hakimi is a cornerstone of the Atlas Lions, having started every game during their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup. His potential unavailability or reduced fitness would be a severe blow to Morocco‘s hopes in the tournament.
Both Paris St-Germain and the Morocco national team will be closely monitoring Hakimi’s recovery timeline as they navigate critical periods in their respective campaigns.
Sources: www.bbc.com
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