Achraf Hakimi, the Spanish-born right-back known for his remarkable speed and skill, is set to play a pivotal role in the UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Inter Milan. The high-profile match will be held at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, an important moment of international visibility for both clubs. Today, his name is associated with the best full-backs in the world. He left for PSG after a dominant tenure at Inter, one cut cruelly short as the club was forced into financial restructuring following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hakimi impressed last season, with Inter Milan. He only missed three games, playing 37 matches in total, and scoring seven while setting up eight more. His previous contributions in attack and defense proved critical in aiding Inter to their first domestic league title since 2010. The financial pressures the club has been under saw him leave as part of a wider cost-cutting drive.
Financial Constraints and Transfers
One case in point—Inter Milan faced crushing fiscal challenges in the early days of the pandemic. These challenges forced the club to make tough decisions regarding the club’s roster. The economic impact of the COVID-19 shutdown necessitated a massive cost-cutting drive, prompting Inter to sell key players to stabilize their finances.
Achraf Hakimi was among the most high-profile casualties of this initiative. Yet his eventual transfer to PSG served to expose the truth behind the new financial realities that the top clubs are operating under. It further highlighted his immense market value. PSG took full advantage of Inter’s predicament, signing Hakimi and strengthening their squad depth in preparation for key domestic and European competitions.
In his time at Inter, Hakimi quickly established himself as a fan favorite, capable of dominating matches with his goal-scoring ability as well as his defensive skills. What to look for This combined ability to help the team win on both sides of the floor translated into Griffin being a must-have piece. At the time of writing he is preparing to meet his old club in the Champions League final. His experience, skill and penchant for team-oriented soccer will be PSG’s new secret ingredient.
Road to the Final
PSG, just like Bayern, has become a behemoth in Europe. They recently defeated Arsenal 2-1 at home in the Parc des Princes to win their semifinal 3-1 on aggregate, booking a spot in the Champions League final. The team’s performance in the semifinals showcased their depth and tactical prowess, setting the stage for an intriguing clash with Inter.
Achraf Hakimi has arguably been their most important player since the Moroccan star arrived at PSG. His easy transition to life with the PSG squad has been a huge factor in PSG’s collective performance this season in all competitions so far. Hakimi’s final against Inter presents him with the ideal platform to create a lasting impression. It gives PSG another chance to win their first-ever Champions League title.
“It’s Inter Milan’s second final in three years. They’re ready. They’ve not made too many changes to their side. It’s a team that dominates from set pieces. It’s up to us to go into the final in the right frame of mind.” – Luis Enrique, PSG manager
Match Details and Team Readiness
The UEFA Champions League final will be played at the Allianz Arena, one of the world’s most impressive stadiums with its unique design and energy. Home to Bayern Munich, this venue will provide an incredible setting for one of football’s most fiercely contested rivalries.
Both sides come into this important matchup with healthy rosters. Achraf Hakimi is set to be one of the key players in PSG’s attack. He’ll be accompanied by other ambitious heroes, equally hungry to etch their names on the canvas of the tournament. Meanwhile, Inter Milan’s manager, Simone Inzaghi, expressed optimism regarding his team’s readiness.
“My wish is to have everyone available on Saturday evening. We’re going to approach the final in the best possible way.” – Simone Inzaghi, Inter Milan manager
Inzaghi showered the players with praise for their superb body of work to prepare them for the final. He reminisced about their run in the tournament and how crucial the fan support was during every step.
“The players did something extraordinary. We played four amazing games against two world-class teams like Bayern and Barcelona. It was great to celebrate this achievement [reaching the final] here with our fans.” – Simone Inzaghi, Inter Milan manager
