Achraf Hakimi’s recovery triggers major PSG selection drama for Champions League final
PSG have Achraf Hakimi returns to training after a thigh injury. However, this situation might bench Warren Zaire-Emery during the UCL final.
Achraf Hakimi’s return to training following an injury has triggered a selection dilemma for PSG head coach Luis Enrique ahead of the Champions League final against Arsenal.
Having injured his thigh during the first leg of the Champions League semi-final versus Bayern Munich, Hakimi is expected to resume training with PSG this week, as per an update by L’Équipe (via Foot Mercato).
The return of the Moroccan international is excellent news for manager Enrique, who has one of his key players of the squad back in contention before they head out for their second successive Champions League final on May 30. However, this event could result in the benching of the makeshift right-back Warren Zaire-Emery, who has clearly made a mark throughout the season both in midfield and the full-back role. He further cemented his position as a versatile player of the team after his stupendous performance in the semi-final against the Bavarians.
What has PSG head coach Luis Enrique said about the Frenchman
“We’ve often talked about him, but he truly embodies the spirit of a homegrown talent. He’s a true homegrown player not only for what he does on the pitch, but also for how he conducts himself off it,” said Luis Enrique, praising Zaire-Emery for his contribution in an unnatural role. “It’s a privilege to have a player like him. He plays everywhere; he has individual, technical, and physical qualities. He’s a real pleasure to coach.”
Furthermore, the 20-year-old’s starting role in midfield will be axed as Fabian Ruiz has set himself as a regular in the engine room alongside Vitinha.
