Hakimi earns strong marks after PSG’s 4-2 comeback win at Manchester City

He was just a few centimetres away from getting his name on the scoresheet. In the 31st minute, latching onto a perfectly weighted cross from Désiré Doué, Achraf Hakimi burst into the box and sent a header against Gianluigi Donnarumma’s post. The chance illustrated his freedom of movement in a first half in which PSG overwhelmed Manchester City, scoring three goals before the break.

Eurosport gives him 6.5/10 and praises his return to his best form: “We haven’t seen Hakimi this sharp in a year,” the outlet writes, highlighting his involvement in the build-up to the first goal and his role as a link-up player on the third. The Moroccan impressed above all with his ability to make runs into several areas of the pitch.

Foot Mercato is just as enthusiastic, giving him 7/10. The website highlights his remarkable versatility: at times defending against Doku, at others playing as a centre-forward during some moves out from the back, and also supporting Maghnès Akliouche in attack. His passing and movement particularly caught the outlet’s attention. Despite his struggles after the break, it felt that “his tireless engine allowed him to get back on his feet.”

A praised first half, followed by a more difficult second

The assessment is also positive at Goal, which gives him 7/10 for his work rate and defensive discipline. Maxifoot points to “a huge defensive effort against Doku” and gives him 6.5/10. ParisFans gives him the same mark, noting “a very fine first half,” with a hint of frustration over his missed chance.

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CulturePSG is more reserved, giving him 6/10 and summing up his performance in a few words: “Brilliant against Doku, much less so against Ndiaye.” The former Marseille player’s introduction at half-time changed the balance of the duel down the right flank. In its detailed analysis, the website says Hakimi had completely neutralised Doku before running into serious difficulties against his replacement’s dribbling. It was a less convincing second half, much like PSG’s, as they came under pressure despite their lead.

Even before kick-off, Erling Haaland had offered the Moroccan defender high praise. Asked about him on Canal+, the Manchester City striker said: “Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi are really fascinating to watch.” On Wednesday night, the Norwegian had a close-up view of the full range of his opponent’s attacking play, even though his team ultimately managed to push him back after the break.