Achraf Hakimi, signed by Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, has become one of the team's key players and his influence on PSG's tactics cannot be overestimated. His unique qualities, such as speed, technique and the ability to play both in defense and attack, allow coaches to use him in different formations, which significantly changes the team's playing dynamics.
First of all, Hakimi brings an element of width to PSG's game. His ability to occupy positions on the flank creates additional attacking opportunities, pushing the opposing defense further and opening up space for central players. Thanks to this, PSG can combine attacks on the flanks, making their game more varied and unpredictable. This is especially noticeable in matches against teams with a tight defense, where the flankers play a key role.
Hakimi also stands out for his ability to support attacks. Not only does he actively participate in advancing the ball, but he also displays excellent finishing skills. His accurate crosses and ability to find partners in the penalty area allow him to create dangerous chances, which increases the overall threat level for the opponent. His presence on the pitch therefore frees up space for stars like Neymar and Mbappé to use their skills more effectively.
Additionally, Hakimi excels in defensive duties. His speed and aggressive style of play make him a versatile defender, capable of dealing with fast opposing players. This allows PSG to play in a riskier manner, knowing that there is a player on the wing who can quickly return to his half of the field and help the team in defense. This combination of offensive and defensive qualities makes Hakimi an indispensable part of the team.
PSG's staff also uses Hakimi to create a numerical advantage in attack. In some matches, he plays higher, which allows him to penetrate the opponent's box and create redundant situations. This strategic decision can disrupt the opponent's defensive lines, allowing PSG to dominate the match. Hakimi can not only finish his attacks alone, but also open up opportunities for his teammates.
However, using Hakimi in this way requires a high level of coordination and discipline from the team. Since he actively participates in attacks, it is important that other defenders can effectively compensate for his forward movement. This creates tactical challenges for the entire team, and the success of the strategy depends on the level of understanding between the players. In this context, Hakimi becomes not only an important player, but also a catalyst that pushes the team to perform at a higher level.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that Hakimi is able to change the course of the game even in difficult situations. His individual actions, such as dribbling or long-range shots, can be decisive in matches where the team struggles to create chances. This makes him not only a tactical weapon, but also a psychological one, capable of inspiring teammates and sowing panic among rivals.
Achraf Hakimi's influence on PSG goes beyond his individual qualities. He has become an important part of the team, influencing the overall tactics and style of play. His presence allows coaches to experiment with different formations and approaches, making the team more flexible and adaptive. In modern football, where tactical changes happen on the fly, this adaptability becomes a decisive factor for success.
In conclusion, Achraf Hakimi plays a key role in PSG's tactics, combining the qualities of an offensive and defensive player. His ability to create chances, support attacks and defend effectively makes him an asset to the team. With each match, his influence on the team's performance becomes more visible and his presence on the pitch continues to open new horizons for Paris Saint-Germain.
