Achraf Hakimi: On Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and His Journey in Football
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) star Achraf Hakimi has established himself as one of the most talented right-backs in world football. In an interview, Hakimi once famously remarked that there are “no differences” between the football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, calling both “champions” and placing them on the same pedestal.1
This statement reflects his admiration for both players, as well as his unique perspective, having played with and against some of the greatest footballers of this generation.
Table of Contents
The Messi-Ronaldo Debate: Hakimi’s Balanced View
- Hakimi’s perspective on the long-standing rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo highlights his deep respect for both players.
- For years, fans and analysts have debated who is the better player, with each player dominating world football for over a decade.
- Hakimi’s neutral stance—recognizing both as champions—emphasizes their unique talents and contributions to the sport, rather than focusing on comparisons.
- Hakimi’s journey through elite clubs has given him firsthand experience with the talent that both Messi and Ronaldo possess.
- Having joined PSG in 2021, Hakimi now plays alongside Messi, while he previously shared the pitch with Ronaldo during his early years at Real Madrid.
- This proximity to both legends has given him a valuable perspective on their work ethic, skill, and leadership.
Achraf Hakimi’s Early Years at Real Madrid
Born in Madrid to Moroccan parents, Achraf Hakimi rose through the youth ranks of Real Madrid’s famous academy, La Fábrica. Regarded as a promising defender with a modern attacking style, Hakimi made his first-team debut for Real Madrid in 2017 after excelling at various youth levels.
Despite being viewed as the natural successor to Dani Carvajal at right-back, Hakimi found it difficult to secure consistent playing time in a squad filled with world-class talent. He made nine appearances for Real Madrid during the 2017-18 season, playing a part in the team’s La Liga and Champions League campaigns.
Loan Move to Borussia Dortmund: A Defining Period
In 2018, Hakimi moved to Borussia Dortmund on a two-year loan deal, a move that proved to be instrumental in his development. The dynamic Bundesliga provided Hakimi with ample opportunities to showcase his versatility.
At Dortmund, he thrived as both a right-back and a wing-back, known for his blistering pace, dribbling ability, and attacking instincts.
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The Messi-Ronaldo Debate: Struggles of Players Who Played with Both
The debate over who reigns supreme between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has spanned over a decade, captivating the football world. While fans, pundits, and analysts often choose sides, many players who have had the rare opportunity to play alongside both legends have expressed difficulty in making a clear distinction between the two.2
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Achraf Hakimi, currently at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and formerly a teammate of Ronaldo at Real Madrid, is not alone in his balanced view on Messi and Ronaldo. A number of other football stars who have shared the pitch with both icons have echoed similar sentiments, finding it almost impossible to choose between the two.
Paulo Dybala’s Perspective: Respect for Both Icons
One notable player who has been vocal about his admiration for both Messi and Ronaldo is Argentine forward Paulo Dybala. Dybala had the privilege of playing alongside Messi for the Argentina national team and Ronaldo during their time together at Juventus.3
In interviews, Dybala has often highlighted the unique qualities that make both players extraordinary.
Ángel Di María: A Balanced View from a Versatile Playmaker
- Another prominent player who has had the chance to share the pitch with both Messi and Ronaldo is Argentine winger Ángel Di María.
- Di María played alongside Ronaldo at Real Madrid during a successful period for the club, winning multiple titles together, including the UEFA Champions League. At the same time, Di María has been a long-standing teammate of Messi for the Argentina national team.
- Di María has often praised Ronaldo’s leadership, particularly during their time at Real Madrid, where the Portuguese forward was seen as the driving force behind the team’s success.
- His determination to win and hunger for goals left a lasting impression on Di María, who admired Ronaldo’s professionalism.
Gonzalo Higuaín: Between Two Giants
Gonzalo Higuaín, an accomplished striker who played with both Messi and Ronaldo, has also shared a similar sentiment when asked to compare the two.
Higuaín played alongside Ronaldo at Real Madrid and later at Juventus, where the duo formed a potent attacking partnership. He has also been Messi’s teammate for the Argentina national team, playing in multiple international tournaments together.
Achraf Hakimi: The Dynamic Full-Back Redefining Modern Football
Achraf Hakimi Mouh, commonly known simply as Achraf, is a Moroccan footballer who has captivated fans and analysts alike with his versatility and attacking prowess. Born on November 4, 1998, Hakimi currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the Morocco national team.
While he primarily plays as a right-back, his ability to function effectively as a left-back or winger makes him one of the most flexible and exciting players in modern football.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Achraf Hakimi was born in Madrid, Spain, to Moroccan parents who had immigrated to Europe in search of better opportunities. His dual nationality allowed him to represent either Spain or Morocco on the international stage, but Hakimi chose to play for Morocco, paying homage to his family’s roots.
Growing up in Getafe, a suburb of Madrid, Hakimi’s footballing potential was evident from a young age. He joined Real Madrid’s famed youth academy, La Fábrica, where he developed under one of the best footballing systems in the world.
It’s great to be back 💪🏽 @PSG_inside pic.twitter.com/OLufzlR4ke
— Achraf Hakimi (@AchrafHakimi) December 28, 2022
Breakthrough at Borussia Dortmund
Recognizing that Hakimi needed more regular playing time to develop, Real Madrid sent him on a two-year loan to Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga in 2018.
This move proved to be transformative for his career. Under the guidance of manager Lucien Favre, Hakimi flourished in Dortmund’s high-intensity, attack-minded system. His ability to bomb down the right flank, contribute to the offense, and provide pinpoint crosses made him one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting young players.
Move to Inter Milan and Serie A Success
In 2020, Inter Milan swooped in to sign Hakimi on a permanent transfer for €40 million. At Inter, Hakimi slotted seamlessly into Antonio Conte’s tactical setup, which heavily relied on wing-backs to provide width and contribute to the attack.
Playing in a 3-5-2 system, Hakimi was given the freedom to push forward, and he thrived in this role. His speed, technical ability, and tactical awareness made him a perfect fit for Conte’s demanding system.
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Achraf Hakimi’s Transfer to Paris Saint-Germain: A New Chapter in Ligue 1
On July 6, 2021, Achraf Hakimi took a significant step in his career by signing with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), one of the most prestigious clubs in European football. This move marked a pivotal moment not only for Hakimi but also for PSG, which was looking to bolster its squad for both domestic and European challenges.
The transfer fee for the Moroccan international was reported to be an initial €60 million, with the potential for an additional €11 million in performance-related add-ons, reflecting Hakimi’s status as one of the top full-backs in the game.
A Strategic Acquisition
Hakimi’s arrival at PSG was part of a broader strategy by the club to build a team capable of competing for the UEFA Champions League title. After several seasons of high expectations and near misses, PSG aimed to solidify their squad by adding world-class talent.
Hakimi’s unique blend of speed, technical ability, and versatility made him an ideal fit for the club’s ambitious plans. His capacity to operate as a right-back, left-back, or winger added depth to an already star-studded roster, which included superstars like Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé.
Financial Aspects of the Transfer
The initial transfer fee of €60 million was a significant investment for PSG, highlighting the club’s willingness to spend big to secure top talent.
Additionally, the potential €11 million in performance-related add-ons underscored Hakimi’s importance to the team’s future success. Such financial commitments reflect PSG’s ambitions in European football, as they continue to pursue their goal of winning the Champions League, a trophy that has eluded them despite their domestic dominance.
Hakimi’s Impact at PSG
Since joining PSG, Hakimi has made an immediate impact on the pitch. His pace and attacking prowess have transformed the right flank, providing width and dynamism to the team’s offensive play.
He quickly established himself as a key player under manager Mauricio Pochettino, regularly contributing to both goals and assists. His ability to overlap with wingers and deliver precise crosses into the box has made him a favorite among fans and teammates alike.
Hiba Abouk’s Net Worth and Financial Background
Hiba Abouk is a well-known Spanish actress and model, celebrated for her work in television and film. As of now, her net worth is estimated to be around $2 million. Abouk has gained prominence in the entertainment industry through various roles in popular Spanish series, which have contributed significantly to her financial standing.
Financial Landscape
Despite her individual earnings, there has been considerable public interest in the financial dynamics between Hiba Abouk and her partner, Achraf Hakimi, a professional footballer who plays for Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team.
Reports suggest that if Hakimi were to have ownership of all their shared assets, Abouk would stand to receive $8.5 million. However, neither party has publicly commented on the specifics of their financial arrangements or the implications of Hakimi’s wealth on their partnership.
Achraf Hakimi’s Financial Success
Achraf Hakimi is among the top-earning athletes in Africa, with earnings reportedly around $215,000 per week. This impressive income places him as the sixth highest-paid athlete on the continent, reflecting not only his lucrative club contract but also various endorsements and sponsorships.
His financial success allows for a comfortable lifestyle for himself and those around him, including Abouk.
Public Perception and Media Coverage
The couple’s financial situation has drawn attention from media outlets and fans alike. As public figures, their relationship often attracts scrutiny, especially regarding personal and financial matters.
Discussions surrounding their wealth highlight broader societal interests in the financial aspects of celebrity relationships. As they navigate their professional and personal lives, Abouk and Hakimi remain at the center of public interest, with their financial arrangements and personal decisions closely observed by the media.
FAQ’S
1. What is Achraf Hakimi’s perspective on the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry?
Ans: Achraf Hakimi views the rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as a significant chapter in football history. He appreciates both players’ unique qualities and contributions to the game, recognizing that each has had a profound impact on their respective teams and the sport as a whole.
2. Has Hakimi played with both Messi and Ronaldo?
Ans: Yes, Achraf Hakimi has had the opportunity to play alongside Lionel Messi at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Prior to that, he played against Cristiano Ronaldo during his time in La Liga with Real Madrid, where he gained valuable insights into Ronaldo’s playing style.
3. How does Hakimi compare Messi and Ronaldo?
Ans: Hakimi has praised Messi for his creativity, vision, and playmaking ability, while acknowledging Ronaldo’s physicality, goal-scoring prowess, and work ethic. He believes that both players bring different strengths to the field, making comparisons difficult.
4. What impact has the rivalry had on younger players, according to Hakimi?
Ans: Hakimi believes that the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry has inspired a new generation of players to strive for excellence. He feels that watching these two legends compete at the highest level motivates young athletes to push their limits and improve their own skills.
5. What does Hakimi think about the future of the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry?
Ans: Hakimi thinks that while both players are nearing the end of their careers, their legacies will continue to influence future generations. He feels that the rivalry has set a benchmark for aspiring footballers and will be remembered as one of the greatest in sports history.
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