During a tense Champions League fixture on November 4, 2025, Achraf Hakimi left the pitch in tears after sustaining a serious ankle injury in Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) match against Bayern Munich. The injury occurred following a reckless challenge from Bayern’s Luis Diaz, who was subsequently shown a red card. Hakimi’s departure marked a significant moment in the match, as he was seen limping off the field on crutches, raising concerns for both his club and national team.
The incident unfolded just before halftime at the Parc des Princes, where Bayern Munich had already taken a commanding 2-0 lead, thanks to two goals from Diaz. His performance was marred by a two-footed lunge that caught Hakimi’s ankle, prompting immediate medical attention. Initial reactions from the referee resulted in a yellow card, but video assistant referee (VAR) intervention quickly overturned that decision, leading to Diaz’s dismissal.
PSG’s medical staff rushed to Hakimi’s aid, and after a lengthy assessment on the pitch, he was helped off, visibly distressed. Speaking after the match, PSG captain Marquinhos noted, “We will need to wait for the tests to understand the extent of the injury.” The uncertainty surrounding Hakimi’s condition has left fans and supporters anxious, particularly regarding his participation in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which starts in December and is hosted in Morocco.
The stakes are high for Hakimi, who has been a pivotal figure for both PSG and the Moroccan national team. Earlier this year, he expressed the importance of AFCON, saying, “The tournament is our top priority. We have a big responsibility to win it in front of our fans.” With millions of supporters hoping to see their captain lead them to glory on home soil, the potential absence of Hakimi would be a devastating blow.
The impact of the injury extends beyond Hakimi’s personal ambitions. PSG is grappling with a growing injury crisis, having also lost Ousmane Dembele during the first half. Dembele’s condition, described as separate from his previous hamstring injury, adds to the club’s woes as they navigate a busy schedule. Coach Luis Enrique commented on the situation, noting the need for caution as they assess the severity of both players’ injuries.
Luis Diaz’s actions have also sparked controversy, as he became only the second player in Champions League history to score twice and receive a red card in the same match, a dubious distinction previously held by Antoine Griezmann. Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany expressed sympathy for Hakimi, emphasizing the intensity of the match but acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
As PSG awaits test results for Hakimi, the football community holds its breath. The defender’s absence could severely impact not only his club’s season but also Morocco’s chances in a tournament widely anticipated by fans. The next few days will be critical as updates on Hakimi’s condition emerge, determining the future of a player whose contributions have been invaluable to both PSG and his national team.
In a sport that brings immense joy, this incident serves as a stark reminder of its unpredictable nature. For Achraf Hakimi, the coming weeks will reveal whether he can return to the pitch or if his dreams, along with those of his country, face a lengthy delay.
