AFCON 2025: “We Have Clarity” — Regragui Confident About Achraf Hakimi’s Return

As Morocco prepares to kick off the Africa Cup of Nations on home soil this Sunday against Comoros, national team coach Walid Regragui has expressed strong optimism regarding Achraf Hakimi’s fitness and participation in the tournament.

Speaking to Brut Afrique on Thursday, the Moroccan coach left little doubt about the PSG right-back’s presence at AFCON 2025.

“Achraf will play at the AFCON, that’s certain,” Regragui said.

“We are very positive about his participation. Now… which match and when? That’s something we’ll keep to ourselves. But he will play this AFCON with us, that’s for sure. We have clarity, but we’ll keep it internal.”

Hakimi has been sidelined since early November after suffering an ankle sprain with Paris Saint-Germain. With more than 50 days of inactivity, questions remain not only about his recovery but also his match fitness.

On November 19, Hakimi received his African Player of the Year award while still wearing a protective boot. One month later, his condition appears to have significantly improved.

A Video That Reassured a Nation

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently released a short video showing Hakimi juggling the ball during Morocco’s media day. The footage quickly spread across social media and reassured Moroccan supporters eager to see their captain back on the pitch for a historic home AFCON.

Public expectation is rising — a pressure Regragui fully embraces.

“I always take pressure in a positive way — it’s a philosophy of life,” he explained.

“We have a beautiful tournament ahead of us. God willing, it will be the greatest AFCON in history. We’re happy to take part, happy to be here — that’s what matters most.”

Morocco will once again rely heavily on its supporters as it chases a continental title that has eluded the nation since 1976.

“We have the best fans in the world,” Regragui concluded.

“Whenever we needed them, they were there. We know they’ll show up again. Our job is to represent them the best way possible and make them happy at the end.”