Achraf Hakimi Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 21, 2025
As the football world enters 2025, few players embody the perfect fusion of speed, skill, and consistency quite like Achraf Hakimi. Now 26 years old, the Moroccan international has cemented his status as one of the most dynamic and influential right-backs—or rather, modern wing-backs—in world football.
From his early days as a La Liga debutant at Real Madrid to becoming a key figure at Paris Saint-Germain, a hero for Morocco, and a global icon for African and Arab excellence, Achraf Hakimi’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless ambition.
Then: The Madrid-Born Prodigy with a Dream (2000–2017)
1. Humble Beginnings in Spain
Born on November 4, 1998, in Madrid, Spain, to Moroccan parents from Tetouan, Achraf Hakimi Lahouiti grew up immersed in football. Raised in the working-class neighborhood of Vallecas, he joined Real Madrid’s famed La Fábrica (youth academy) at just 8 years old—younger than most of his peers.
From the start, his explosive pace, technical precision, and attacking instincts set him apart. Coaches saw in him a rare blend: a defender with the heart of a winger.
2. Rise Through the Ranks
Achraf Hakimi climbed the youth ladder swiftly:
- Key player for Real Madrid Juvenil A
- Captained Real Madrid’s U19 team
- Made his senior debut in 2017 under Zinedine Zidane in a La Liga match against Deportivo La Coruña
Though limited to a few appearances, his debut was symbolic: a homegrown talent fulfilling a lifelong dream.
Related: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia Then and Now
The Rise: Loan Spells, Breakthrough, and International Stardom (2017–2021)
1. Loan to Borussia Dortmund – The Making of a Star
In 2018, Real Madrid loaned Achraf Hakimi to Borussia Dortmund—a move that would change his career. Under Lucien Favre, he was deployed as an attacking right wing-back in a 4-2-3-1 system, unleashing his full potential.
His stats in two seasons:
- 6 goals, 14 assists (2018–19)
- 7 goals, 11 assists (2019–20)
- Known for blistering runs, pinpoint crosses, and game-breaking speed
He became one of the most dangerous attacking full-backs in Europe, drawing comparisons to巅峰时期的 Cafu and Dani Alves.
2. Return to Madrid and a Bittersweet Chapter
In 2020, Real Madrid activated his buy-back clause, bringing him back for €40 million. But with Dani Carvajal established as the first-choice right-back, Hakimi struggled for consistent starts.
Despite flashes of brilliance—like his goal and assist against Liverpool in the 2020–21 Champions League—he remained a rotation player, fueling speculation about his future.
3. Morocco’s Rising Star
On the international stage, Hakimi was already a key figure. He made his debut for Morocco in 2016 and played in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. But his true breakthrough came in 2022, when he became the face of Morocco’s historic World Cup campaign.
Related: Adrien Rabiot Then and Now
Now in 2025: PSG’s Speed King and African Football Icon
1. A €60 Million Move to Paris Saint-Germain (2021–2025)
In June 2021, Hakimi joined Paris Saint-Germain for a staggering €60 million, becoming one of the most expensive defenders in history. Under Mauricio Pochettino, Christophe Galtier, and now Luis Enrique, he has evolved into a complete modern wing-back.
By 2025, his impact at PSG is undeniable:
- Launched over 100 assists for Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi (during his tenure), and Ousmane Dembélé
- Averaged over 30 km/h in sprints—consistently among the fastest in Ligue 1
- Scored 12 goals and 28 assists in 130+ appearances
- Instrumental in three Ligue 1 titles (2022, 2023, 2024)
Under Luis Enrique’s 3-4-3 system, Hakimi thrives as a right wing-back, combining defensive solidity with relentless attacking support. His chemistry with Mbappé—two of the fastest players in football—has become one of the most feared duos in Europe.
2. Ballon d’Or Recognition and Global Stardom
In 2023 and 2024, Hakimi cracked the Ballon d’Or Top 20, a rare feat for a defender. In 2025, he is widely regarded as:
- The best right-back in the world
- One of the most influential African players in history
- A consistent performer in high-pressure matches, including Champions League knockout games
His ability to dictate tempo, deliver under pressure, and recover defensively has redefined the role of the modern full-back.
3. Hero of Morocco’s Historic 2022 World Cup Run
Hakimi’s legacy was forever sealed during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where he played a pivotal role in Morocco’s unprecedented run to the semifinals—the first African nation ever to do so.
Memorable moments:
- Saved a penalty from Spain in the Round of 16 with a full-stretch dive
- Delivered crucial assists against Spain and Portugal
- Became a national icon, celebrated across Africa and the Arab world
In 2025, he remains captain of the national team, leading Morocco’s next generation into AFCON 2025 and World Cup 2026 qualifiers with pride and purpose.
Related: Josko Gvardiol Then and Now
Personal Life and Cultural Impact
1. A Symbol of Dual Identity
Hakimi proudly represents both his Spanish upbringing and Moroccan heritage. Fluent in Spanish, Arabic, French, and English, he bridges cultures and inspires millions of diaspora youth.
He’s often praised for:
- His humility and professionalism
- His charity work in Morocco, including funding youth academies and schools
- Being a role model for young Arab and African athletes
2. High-Profile Personal Life
Hakimi’s relationship with Moroccan-Algerian singer and influencer Myriam Soumaré drew media attention, but he maintains a relatively private life. In 2024, he became a father, sharing heartfelt messages about family and legacy.
3. Brand Power and Marketability
With over 25 million followers across Instagram and TikTok, Hakimi is one of football’s most marketable stars. He’s a global ambassador for:
- Nike (signature “Phantom GT” boots)
- Hublot (luxury watch brand)
- Pepsi and Qatar Airways
His signature celebration—the “airplane” pose—has become iconic, mimicked by fans worldwide.
Related: Mason Mount Then and Now
Tactical Evolution: More Than Just Speed
While known for his lightning pace, Hakimi in 2025 is far more than just a sprinter:
- Improved defensive positioning and tackling
- Greater tactical discipline under Luis Enrique
- Smart decision-making in the final third
- Leadership and communication on the pitch
He’s no longer just a “winger at the back”—he’s a complete footballer who can dominate both flanks, contribute in build-up, and close down attackers with precision.
Related: Raphinha Then and Now
Legacy and Future in 2025
As of 2025, Achraf Hakimi stands at the peak of his powers. He is:
- PSG’s most consistent performer in a star-studded squad
- Morocco’s most capped and decorated player
- A contender for the next African Footballer of the Year
- A potential future captain of PSG
Rumors of interest from Real Madrid and Manchester City persist, but Hakimi has expressed commitment to PSG’s project, aiming to finally win the UEFA Champions League—the one trophy that has eluded him.
Conclusion: Achraf Hakimi – Then and Now in 2025
- Then: A Madrid-born teenager in Real Madrid’s academy, dreaming of glory, loaned out to prove himself.
- Now: A global superstar, Moroccan legend, and one of the most feared and respected players in world football.
Achraf Hakimi’s journey is a testament to patience, adaptability, and self-belief. He didn’t just survive the pressure of Real Madrid or the scrutiny of PSG—he thrived.
In 2025, he is more than a footballer.
He is a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity, and when pride in heritage fuels greatness on the world stage.
As he continues to fly down the right flank—faster than ever, smarter than before—one thing is certain:
Achraf Hakimi isn’t just chasing history.
He’s making it.
⚡ “I run not to escape the past, but to reach the future.” – Achraf Hakimi
Related: Phil Foden Then and Now