Achraf Hakimi’s severe ankle sprain threatens his AFCON participation as PSG confirm a six-to-eight-week recovery timeline after Bayern defeat.
Paris Saint-Germain confirmed that Moroccan full-back Achraf Hakimi will be sidelined for up to eight weeks after sustaining a severe left ankle sprain during Tuesday’s 2-1 Champions League loss to Bayern Munich. The 27-year-old was forced off in tears following a reckless challenge from Bayern’s Luis Díaz just before half-time at the Parc des Princes.
The Colombian winger initially received a yellow card, which was later upgraded to red after a VAR review. Hakimi, celebrating his 27th birthday that night, was treated on the pitch before being stretchered off amid visible distress.
Club tests ruled out a fracture or surgery, but the diagnosis means Hakimi faces an uphill battle to recover in time for the Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off on December 21st in Morocco.
While PSG avoided a worst-case scenario, losing one of their most reliable defenders during a crucial part of the season is a major setback. The Paris club are top of Ligue 1 and eyeing a strong Champions League campaign, yet the absence of Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé, who also picked up a calf strain, stretches Luis Enrique’s squad depth.
For Morocco, the news is equally alarming. Head coach Walid Regragui counts on Hakimi not just for his defensive strength but for his leadership and attacking flair. The full-back played a pivotal role in Morocco’s historic 2022 World Cup run and remains captain and cornerstone of the team.
The Atlas Lions’ medical team will monitor his progress closely, with reports suggesting a full recovery could take between six and eight weeks, cutting it fine for AFCON’s opening fixture.
The clash in Paris was full of intensity and drama. Luis Díaz had already scored twice before his challenge overshadowed the evening. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany later expressed sympathy, calling the incident “an unfortunate moment that can happen in high-intensity football.”
PSG captain Marquinhos also spoke after the match, urging calm: “Luis isn’t a bad guy; it was a tough challenge. But losing Hakimi now hurts us deeply.”
Even Díaz took to social media to apologize, writing, “I wish Hakimi a quick return. It was never my intention to hurt him.” The Moroccan defender later shared a hopeful message, saying, “Falls are part of the journey; the comeback makes the difference.”
Hakimi’s focus now turns to recovery, with PSG confirming he will undergo intensive treatment over the coming weeks. The club is expected to rely on Nordi Mukiele or Marquinhos to fill in at right-back.
For Morocco, the countdown to AFCON 2025 has begun. Hakimi’s availability will depend on swelling reduction and stability in the injured ankle. If recovery goes as planned, he could return just in time for the group stage, but any setback might rule him out entirely.
PSG return to Ligue 1 action against Lyon on November 9th before resuming their Champions League campaign with a fixture against Tottenham Hotspur later this month. Both club and country now wait anxiously as one of Africa’s brightest stars battles to be fit for his biggest stage yet.
