Achraf Hakimi, born in Madrid in 1998, represents a career defined by rapid acceleration across Europe’s premier football leagues. Rising from the Real Madrid youth academy to secure multiple continental titles, he has established himself as a prominent right-back. His professional journey spans clubs in Spain, Germany, Italy, and France, consistently matching high-level defensive utility with significant attacking output.
Early Development and Real Madrid
Growing up in the Getafe area of Madrid, Hakimi joined his first local club, CD Colonia Ofigevi, at age eight before entering Real Madrid’s youth system in 2006. Initially positioned as a winger, he transitioned to right-back during his development. He made his senior debut for the club’s B team in 2016 and earned promotion to the first team in 2017. During his tenure, he contributed to the club's 2017-18 UEFA Champions League victory, becoming the first Moroccan to secure the European Cup.
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A two-year loan to Borussia Dortmund beginning in 2018 marked a period of notable physical and technical growth, during which he set a Bundesliga speed record of 36.48 km/h. Following his stint in Germany, he moved to Inter Milan in 2020 for approximately €40 million, helping the team secure their first Serie A title in 11 years. His performance at Inter facilitated a move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 for a fee reported at €68 million.
Success with Paris Saint-Germain
Since joining Paris Saint-Germain, Hakimi has been a consistent presence in the squad, contributing to multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cup wins. His role expanded significantly during the 2025 and 2026 seasons, where he was integral to the club achieving consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. In 2025, he extended his contract with the Parisian side until 2029, reinforcing his status as a key component of the team's defensive and attacking structure.
International Representation
Although born in Spain, Hakimi chose to represent Morocco at the international level. He made his senior debut in 2016 at the age of 17. He has competed in three FIFA World Cups and four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. At the 2022 World Cup, he helped lead the team to become the first African nation to reach the semi-finals. He was later part of the squad that secured the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.
Fast facts
- Born: 1998, Madrid, Spain
- Citizenship: Spain, Morocco
- Debut Year: 2016
- Awards: Officer of the Order of the Throne (2022)
- 2025 African Player of the Year
- Languages: French, Italian, Spanish, English, Moroccan Arabic
- Religion: Islam
Questions readers ask
Which international team does Achraf Hakimi represent?
He represents the Morocco national team, having made his senior international debut in 2016.
What is Achraf Hakimi's primary position on the pitch?
He plays as a right-back, though he initially trained as a winger during his time in the Real Madrid youth academy.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player