Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi is set for a spell on the sidelines after suffering a thigh injury during the Champions League semi-final first leg against Bayern Munich. The club confirmed the Moroccan international has sustained a lesion to his right thigh and will remain under treatment for the coming weeks, casting doubt on his availability for the remainder of the season.
The injury occurred during PSG's dramatic victory over Bayern at the Parc des Princes, a match Hakimi started and played the full 90 minutes. The club's medical update, issued via their official channels, stated the full-back "will remain in treatment in the coming weeks" but did not provide a specific timeline for his return. This development places his participation in the crucial second leg in Munich, and potentially the final should PSG progress, in serious jeopardy.
According to the club's assessment, Hakimi may also miss key domestic fixtures, including a Ligue 1 encounter with Lens. His absence would represent a significant blow for manager Luis Enrique, who has relied heavily on the 27-year-old's attacking prowess from right-back. Hakimi has been a mainstay in the PSG lineup since his arrival from Inter Milan in 2021, contributing both defensive solidity and a consistent offensive threat.
The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate for Hakimi personally, coming during a season where he has been in impressive form for both club and country. His marauding runs and link-up play have been integral to PSG's style under Enrique. For PSG, the injury crisis in defense deepens, with the update also noting that backup goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier is dealing with a separate issue, though he is considered a substitute option.
PSG will now be forced to explore alternatives at right-back for the decisive return leg in Germany. Options within the squad include Nordi Mukiele, who has filled in at the position previously, or a tactical reshuffle that could see a centre-back deployed in a wider role. The loss of Hakimi's experience and chemistry with the forward line, particularly on the right flank, alters the tactical dynamic for one of the biggest matches of PSG's campaign.
This setback occurs amid a period of intense scrutiny for the French champions, with other stories surrounding Kylian Mbappe's fitness and future also dominating headlines. The club's medical staff will now focus on managing Hakimi's recovery, hoping for a swift return that could yet see him feature if PSG can navigate their way to the Champions League final in June.
