Luis Enrique: AFCON is key to Hakimi’s full recovery — PSG boss hails Morocco tournament

Enrique explains Hakimi’s journey back through AFCON

Luis Enrique: AFCON is key to Hakimi’s full recovery — PSG boss hails Morocco tournament

Paris Saint Germain head coach Luis Enrique underlined the importance of AFCON 2025 in helping Achraf Hakimi regain his peak physical condition after injury.

Hakimi began the tournament cautiously remaining on the bench in Morocco’s 1st two group matches as he continued his recovery from ankle problem.

His return came in the final group game against Zambia where he featured for 26 minute in 3 - 0 win.

Since then the Moroccan full back has steadily increased his influence. He completed the full match in the 1 - 0 round 16 victory over Tanzania providing the decisive assist for Brahim Diaz and was again involved as Morocco beat Cameroon 2 - 0 in quarter finals.

Speaking ahead of PSG’s French Cup tie with Paris FC, Luis Enrique drew clear line between medical recovery and competitive sharpness.

“There is difference between recovering from injury and being 100 percent physically ready,” Enrique said. “Hakimi is fine and he played the last match completely. He is present in semi final and that is important for us.”

The Spanish coach admitted that Hakimi has not yet reached his maximum level but stressed that regular minutes in high intensity matches are exactly what he needs.

“He is not yet at his best level but it is important for him to play,” Enrique added. “When he returns to Paris, it will be important for him to be in the best possible condition.”

Hakimi who was crowned Africa’s Best Player in 2025 after leading PSG to historic trophy haul, has featured in 14 match across all competitions this season scoring twice and providing three assist.

Morocco now prepare for semi final showdown with Nigeria on Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.