Achraf Hakimi At Real Madrid: The Rising Star Who Conquered Europe

Amiya West 10 May 2025

When you talk about modern football, names like Achraf Hakimi immediately pop up as one of the brightest talents in the game today. This Moroccan sensation has been making waves across Europe, especially during his time at Real Madrid and beyond. Achraf Hakimi’s journey is not just about talent; it’s about grit, perseverance, and an unrelenting drive to be the best. So, buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the world of this extraordinary player!

From the bustling streets of Madrid to the grand stages of the UEFA Champions League, Achraf Hakimi has left an indelible mark on the footballing world. His rise from a promising academy player to a world-class right-back is nothing short of inspirational. In this article, we’ll explore every facet of his career, from his early days at Real Madrid to his current status as one of the most sought-after defenders in the world.

But let’s not forget, Achraf’s story isn’t just about football. It’s about breaking barriers, representing his country with pride, and proving that hard work can take you places. So, whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just someone curious about what makes Achraf Hakimi tick, you’re in for a treat!

Biography: Who Is Achraf Hakimi?

Before we dive into his football career, let’s take a moment to understand the man behind the jersey. Achraf Hakimi was born on **November 4, 1998**, in Madrid, Spain, to Moroccan parents. Growing up in the culturally rich environment of Madrid, Achraf quickly developed a love for football, which would eventually shape his destiny.

Here’s a quick breakdown of his personal details:

Full Name	Achraf Lahrach Hakimi
Date of Birth	November 4, 1998
Place of Birth	Madrid, Spain
Nationality	Moroccan
Height	1.85m (6 ft 1 in)
Position	Right-back / Wing-back

As you can see, Achraf Hakimi is not just a footballer—he’s a symbol of multiculturalism and determination. Let’s move on to the meat of the story!

Early Days at Real Madrid: The Foundation of a Legend

Achraf Hakimi’s journey began at the illustrious **Real Madrid academy**, La Fábrica. At the tender age of 12, he joined the club’s youth setup, showcasing his skills and passion for the game. It was here that he honed his craft, learning from some of the best coaches and players in the world.

His early days were marked by hard work and dedication. While many players at his age were still figuring out their positions, Achraf knew exactly where he belonged—on the right flank, flying up and down the pitch with ease. His versatility and attacking mindset made him stand out, earning him a spot in the first team sooner than expected.

Breaking Into the First Team

The big break came in **2017** when Zinedine Zidane, then the manager of Real Madrid, gave Achraf his debut in a Champions League match against APOEL. From that moment on, there was no looking back. His performances were nothing short of spectacular, and he quickly became a fan favorite.

However, competition at Real Madrid is fierce, and with established stars like Dani Carvajal in the team, Achraf realized he needed more playing time to truly develop his skills. This led to a crucial decision in his career…

Achraf Hakimi’s Loan Spells: Learning and Growing

In **2018**, Achraf Hakimi was loaned out to **Borussia Dortmund**, a move that proved to be a masterstroke in his career. The Bundesliga offered him the perfect platform to showcase his talents and gain valuable experience. Under the guidance of Lucien Favre, he flourished, becoming one of the most feared wing-backs in Europe.

His performances for Dortmund were nothing short of stellar. He scored goals, provided assists, and defended with a tenacity that left opponents in awe. By the end of his two-year loan spell, Achraf had cemented his reputation as one of the best young defenders in the world.

Key Achievements During His Dortmund Years

Scored **12 goals** and provided **17 assists** in 73 appearances for Dortmund.
Helped the team secure a second-place finish in the Bundesliga in the **2018-19** season.
Named in the **Bundesliga Team of the Season** for the **2019-20** campaign.

These achievements not only boosted his confidence but also caught the attention of top clubs around the world. But what happened next would change the course of his career forever…

Return to Real Madrid: A Bittersweet Homecoming

After his successful stint at Dortmund, Achraf returned to Real Madrid in **2020**, hoping to reclaim his place in the first team. However, things didn’t quite go as planned. The club had other priorities, and Achraf found himself on the sidelines more often than he would have liked.

Despite this, he remained professional and continued to train hard, waiting for his opportunity to shine. Unfortunately, the club decided to part ways with him, paving the way for a new chapter in his career.

Why Did Real Madrid Let Him Go?

There are several reasons why Real Madrid chose to sell Achraf Hakimi. Firstly, the club was in financial trouble due to the pandemic, and selling one of their prized assets was a way to balance the books. Secondly, they believed that Dani Carvajal was still the better option for the right-back position at that time.

While it was a tough decision for both parties, it ultimately turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Achraf. His next destination would prove to be a turning point in his career…

Paris Saint-Germain: The Next Chapter

In **2021**, Achraf Hakimi made a high-profile move to **Paris Saint-Germain** for a reported fee of **60 million euros**. Joining a star-studded team featuring the likes of Neymar, Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi, Achraf wasted no time in making his mark.

At PSG, he found the perfect environment to thrive. The club’s attacking philosophy suited his style of play, allowing him to showcase his offensive prowess while still maintaining his defensive duties. His performances were nothing short of magnificent, and he quickly became a key player for the team.

Key Contributions at PSG

Scored **8 goals** and provided **11 assists** in his first season at PSG.
Helped the team secure the **Ligue 1 title** in the **2021-22** season.
Named in the **Ligue 1 Team of the Year** for the **2021-22** campaign.

With PSG, Achraf Hakimi has reached new heights, proving that he belongs among the elite players in the world. But his journey doesn’t stop here…

Morocco’s Pride: Representing His Country

Beyond his club career, Achraf Hakimi has also made a name for himself on the international stage. Representing **Morocco**, he has been a key player for the national team, helping them achieve historic success.

In the **2022 FIFA World Cup**, Morocco made history by becoming the first African team to reach the semifinals, and Achraf Hakimi played a pivotal role in their success. His leadership, skill, and determination inspired his teammates and the entire nation.

World Cup Highlights

Scored **1 penalty** in the shootout against Spain in the round of 16.
Provided **2 assists** in the tournament, showcasing his versatility.
Named in the **FIFA World Cup All-Star Team** for his outstanding performances.

Achraf Hakimi’s impact on the Moroccan national team cannot be overstated. He is a true hero to his people, and his achievements have brought immense pride to his country.

The Future of Achraf Hakimi

As Achraf Hakimi continues to grow and develop as a player, the sky is the limit for what he can achieve. With his current form and the talent he possesses, he is destined for greatness. Whether it’s winning more trophies with PSG or leading Morocco to further success on the international stage, Achraf has the potential to leave a lasting legacy in the world of football.

But what does the future hold for him? Will he return to Real Madrid one day? Or will he explore new opportunities elsewhere? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—Achraf Hakimi’s journey is far from over.

Predictions for His Future

Continued success with PSG, potentially winning the Champions League.
Leadership role for Morocco in upcoming tournaments, including the **2026 FIFA World Cup**.
Possible moves to other top clubs in Europe, such as Manchester City or Bayern Munich.

No matter where his journey takes him, Achraf Hakimi will always be remembered as one of the greatest players of his generation.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Achraf Hakimi

In conclusion, Achraf Hakimi’s career is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and talent. From his early days at Real Madrid to his current status as a world-class defender, he has proven time and again that he belongs among the best.

His contributions to football, both at the club and international level, have been nothing short of remarkable. Whether it’s scoring crucial goals, providing assists, or making vital tackles, Achraf Hakimi has shown that he is a complete player who can adapt to any situation.

So, what can we take away from his story? First and foremost, never underestimate the power of perseverance. Achraf faced setbacks and challenges, but he never gave up. He worked hard, stayed focused, and eventually achieved his dreams.

As you’ve read through this article, I hope you’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the talent and dedication of Achraf Hakimi. If you enjoyed this piece, feel free to leave a comment below or share it with your friends. And don’t forget to check out more articles on our site for all things football!

Biography: Who Is Achraf Hakimi?
Early Days at Real Madrid: The Foundation of a Legend
Achraf Hakimi’s Loan Spells: Learning and Growing
Return to Real Madrid: A Bittersweet Homecoming
Paris Saint-Germain: The Next Chapter
Morocco’s Pride: Representing His Country
The Future of Achraf Hakimi
Conclusion: The Legacy of Achraf Hakimi

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