PSG’s Hakimi Warns of Tough Test Against Arsenal in Champions League Clash

Speaking to the press on Monday, Achraf Hakimi addressed several topics, including the Parisians’ trip to London on Tuesday to cross swords with Arsenal as part of the second round of the Champions League group stage. The Moroccan international expects a difficult match. "It’s a very difficult team to play against, it will be a very difficult match... These are three very important points to collect. [...] It will be a beautiful match where the two teams will want to show their personality."

The Parisian right-back also discussed his progress under Luis Enrique’s orders. "It’s true that since the coach’s arrival, I’ve felt the confidence that has been given to me. He has allowed me to express myself and has given me freedom on the pitch. I’ve become a better player. This year, I’m one of the team’s captains and I’m one of the most experienced players on the team and I know I have an important role to play on the pitch and off it. It’s a great responsibility that I willingly accept," said the Atlas Lion.

Hakimi did not fail to highlight the Parisian club’s performances since the start of the season. "I think this year’s PSG is a continuation of last year’s. There is a union between the players, a great collective present in every game. This is the strength of this team and I think we will see it again. PSG is a respected team in Europe, it is a team with great players and I am sure that no team wants to play against PSG. It’s a difficult team to play against.

For Tuesday’s match, the Parisian club will likely be without Ousmane Dembélé. An eventual absence that should not affect the team, thinks the Parisian defender. "I don’t know what the coach’s plan will be for Tuesday. But whether Ousmane plays or not, other players can take over. We know that the most important thing in this PSG is the collective," affirmed the Atlas Lion.