PSG suffer major injury scare as Achraf Hakimi faces race against time for Arsenal clash
Paris Saint-Germain could be without one of their most important players for the UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal, with reports suggesting Achraf Hakimi is now in a serious race against time to be fit for the showdown in Budapest.
According to reports from French outlet L’Équipe, the Moroccan international is not currently expected to be fully fit to start the final after struggling to recover from a thigh injury suffered during PSG’s semi-final clash against Bayern Munich.
The update has immediately raised concerns inside the PSG camp, especially considering Hakimi’s importance to Luis Enrique’s tactical system.
A huge blow for PSG
Hakimi has been one of PSG’s standout performers this season and remains widely regarded as one of the best attacking right-backs in world football.
His pace, overlapping runs, creativity, and defensive recovery make him a crucial part of PSG’s balance particularly in big European matches.
The 27-year-old reportedly suffered the injury during the first leg of PSG’s Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and has since missed several matches while working individually away from the main squad.
Recent reports indicate he is expected to return to partial training soon, but there are doubts over whether he will be physically ready to start against Arsenal.
Mixed reports emerging from France
Interestingly, not all reports agree on the severity of the situation.
Some outlets in France and Spain suggest PSG remain optimistic that Hakimi will recover in time for the final and could still feature.
Luis Enrique’s medical staff are reportedly being extremely cautious with his rehabilitation to avoid aggravating the injury before the biggest game of the season.
That means the final decision may only be made closer to matchday.
Why Arsenal could benefit
If Hakimi is unavailable or not fully fit, it would represent a significant boost for Arsenal.
The Moroccan defender offers PSG enormous attacking width on the right flank and is often key to transitions between defence and attack. His absence would likely force Luis Enrique to rely on alternative solutions, with Warren Zaïre-Emery reportedly among the players capable of filling the role temporarily.
Arsenal’s left side could gain more freedom if PSG lose Hakimi’s defensive pace and attacking threat.
However, Mikel Arteta also faces concerns of his own heading into the final, particularly in the right-back position, where injuries have affected squad depth.
Hakimi’s importance to PSG’s project
Since joining Paris Saint-Germain from Inter Milan in 2021, Achraf Hakimi has become one of the club’s most influential players.
He recently extended his PSG contract until 2029 and remains central to the club’s long-term plans.
Hakimi has already delivered several decisive performances in Europe, including scoring against Arsenal in previous Champions League meetings.
That is exactly why PSG supporters will be desperately hoping he can recover in time for the final.
Final verdict
At the moment, the situation remains uncertain rather than definitive.
While some reports claim Hakimi is unlikely to start against Arsenal, others believe PSG are optimistic about his recovery and expect him to at least be available for selection.
What is clear is that his fitness could become one of the biggest storylines ahead of the Champions League final.
And if PSG are forced to face Arsenal without one of their most dangerous players, the balance of the final could shift dramatically.
