After joining Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2021, Achraf Hakimi quickly became one of the team's key players. His French league debut came on August 7, 2021, in a match against Troyes. The Parisians entered the field with the ambition of taking all three points, but it was Hakimi who made the decisive contribution to the victory. His speed, technique, and aggressive style of play became PSG's main weapon on the right flank. In the 19th minute of the match, Ashraf demonstrated his attacking qualities by bursting into the penalty area and firing a precise shot past the Troyes goalkeeper. It wasn't just a goal; it was a resounding announcement of his arrival in Ligue 1. Fans and pundits alike immediately understood that PSG had gained not just a right-back, but a player capable of influencing the outcome of matches.
Despite a swift response from Troyes, Mauricio Pochettino's team managed to take control of the match. Midway through the first half, Icardi scored PSG's second goal, the game-winning goal. However, the main character remained Hakimi, who constantly caused problems for the opposing defense and played confidently in defense. Ashraf's first match for the Parisians was a revelation: he immediately adapted to PSG's style of play and began to demonstrate his potential. Fans saw a player who is not afraid to take responsibility and who can decide the outcome of matches.
Continuing to play for PSG, Hakimi became a true leader on the pitch. His actions weren't limited to attack; he also actively supported the defense, returning to his position on time. This balance between offensive and defensive duties made him an indispensable player in the coach's system. Hakimi was often a source of inspiration for his teammates, as his energy and determination energized the entire team. In subsequent matches, Ashraf continued to show astonishing form.
His ability to outplay opponents, create chances for his teammates, and score goals has made him one of the best right-backs in Europe. For example, in the match against Lille, Hakimi provided two assists and a goal, further demonstrating his superiority. One of Hakimi's key characteristics is his ability to adapt to any style of play. He can play in both the classic 4-4-2 formation and more attacking formations such as the 3-5-2 or 4-3-3. This allows the coach to change tactics depending on the opponent without compromising on quality. Hakimi is always ready to take on new challenges and eager to learn new aspects of the game, making him a valuable asset to the team.
One of the main reasons PSG acquired Achraf Hakimi is his versatility. Although nominally a right-back, his playing style is more like that of a winger. In the match against Troyes, Hakimi was constantly involved in attacks, creating width on the right flank and helping his teammates find open space. His ability to instantly switch from defense to attack was a key factor in PSG quickly seizing the initiative. Thanks to his excellent balance between defensive and offensive actions, Ashraf repeatedly penetrated the opponent's penalty area, making defenders nervous. His first goal in a PSG shirt has become symbolic: it was a lightning attack in which he received the ball in the penalty area, took a few touches, and coolly sent it into the back of the net.
But his off-the-ball play was even more impressive. He constantly opened up, sprinted, and supported attacking combinations. In the second half, Hakimi didn't let up. He scored several times on the opposing goal, forced his players to break the rules, and won several one-on-one duels. Even when Troyes tried to create chances near Donnarumma's goal, Achraf returned in time and blocked the opposing attacking zones. His versatility and physicality made him an indispensable player in this match. It was thanks to Hakimi that PSG managed to contain Troyes' pressure and conclude the match victoriously.
This match was just the beginning of Hakimi's impressive career at PSG. His playing style quickly caught the attention of fans and pundits alike. Many began comparing him to legendary right-backs who knew how to not only defend but also actively participate in attacks. Hakimi proved that he could not only play in defense but also be a key player in attack, taking responsibility in crucial moments. In subsequent matches, Ashraf continued to impress. His ability to react quickly to the situation on the pitch, along with his great physical stamina, allowed him to perform at a high level throughout the match. He became an important part of the coach's tactics, allowing the team to maintain a balance between attack and defense. Hakimi was often involved in goal creation, providing precise passes and receiving crosses.
It's worth mentioning his interaction with the team's other stars. Hakimi quickly found a common language with Neymar and Mbappé, which allowed him to create a powerful attacking triangle. This mutual understanding on the pitch became the basis for many successful attacks that led to victories in matches. For example, in the match against Marseille, Hakimi demonstrated an impressive combination with Mbappé, which resulted in a goal that became decisive in that match.
After the final whistle, it became clear that Achraf Hakimi had not only made a successful debut, but had also established himself as one of PSG's most important players. His performance in the match against Troyes received a lot of positive feedback from both the pundits and the coaching staff. Fans immediately fell in love with the newcomer, whose game resembled that of legendary right-backs of the past. His dynamism, speed, and ability to work for the team were the main arguments in favor of this transfer, which will be one of the best for PSG. Coach Mauricio Pochettino stated after the match that Achraf had all the qualities to become the best right-back in the world.
He also noted that the debut match is just the beginning and that Hakimi still has plenty of opportunities to prove himself. This support from the coach underscored the club's confidence in Achraf's potential and his ability to adapt to the high demands of the French Ligue 1. The French press also praised the Moroccan's performance. L'Équipe called him "the ideal right-back for modern football," while Le Parisien highlighted his tactical acumen and ability to read the game. Hakimi demonstrated an excellent understanding of positional play, which allowed him to interact effectively with his teammates on the pitch. His ability to find open areas and launch quick attacks has become an important part of PSG's strategy.
