Morocco star Achraf Hakimi reveals Zidane’s lasting influence on his career

Morocco international Achraf Hakimi has credited French legend Zinedine Zidane for shaping his professional career, describing the former Real Madrid coach as a mentor and father figure.

Hakimi, now a key player for Paris Saint-Germain, was just 17 when Zidane handed him an opportunity to train and play with Real Madrid’s senior team in 2017. At the time, the right-back was still featuring for the club’s reserve side, Castilla.

Speaking in an interview on French TV show Clique on Canal+, Hakimi recalled the trust Zidane placed in him at such a young age.

“What did he bring me? He gave me his trust. I was young, still with Castilla, and he called me up and gave me playing time,” Hakimi said.

“I thank him for that, because not every coach would do it. I will be forever grateful to him. I learned so much from him, especially how he spoke to players, like a father to his children. He always wanted the best for me,” added the player.

The 25-year-old added that Zidane’s influence extended beyond tactics and training, teaching him the importance of communication and building bonds within a squad.

“He spoke to us as if we were his own children, as if he was giving advice to his son Luca, and he wanted the best for me. I learned so much from Zidane,” Hakimi said.

During the same interview, Hakimi was also asked to name his dream all-time XI. His attacking trio featured Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Brazilian great Ronaldo Nazário.

Asked about his close friend and former PSG teammate Kylian Mbappé, Hakimi playfully replied:

“No, he’s on the bench. He’ll come on as my first substitution. He’s a phenomenal player.”

Hakimi and Mbappé forged a strong relationship at PSG, with the Moroccan often praising the Frenchman’s pace, skill and professionalism both on and off the pitch.