Achraf Hakimi expressed deep gratitude to His Majesty King Mohammed VI on 8 Jul 2026, thanking the monarch for his unwavering support of Moroccan football development. The right‑back, now a key figure at Paris Saint‑Germain, highlighted how royal backing has accelerated youth programmes and infrastructure across the kingdom.
Why did Hakimi thank the king?
Hakimi’s remarks came during a televised interview on Al‑Aoula, where he noted that recent investments have upgraded training facilities in Casablanca and Rabat. He said the king’s vision has turned Morocco into a “footballing hub” capable of producing talent for Europe’s top leagues. The player credited these improvements for the national team’s recent rise in FIFA rankings.
How does royal support impact Moroccan football?
Since King Mohammed VI launched the “Vision 2025” sports plan in 2022, the Moroccan Football Federation has received €120 million for stadium renovations and academy construction. Hakimi pointed out that the new academy in Marrakech now hosts 250 youngsters, offering them elite coaching and education. He believes this pipeline will sustain the national team’s competitiveness on the world stage.
What does this mean for Hakimi’s career?
While Hakimi continues to excel at club level—recording five assists and two goals in PSG’s first ten Ligue 1 matches—he sees his role as an ambassador for Moroccan talent. He told the audience that every time he steps onto the pitch, he carries the hopes of the young players benefitting from the king’s initiatives. The statement aligns with his recent pledge to mentor academy graduates during off‑season camps.
What’s next for Moroccan football?
The federation plans to host the 2027 African Cup of Nations, a tournament that could showcase the upgraded venues funded by the royal program. Hakimi hinted that he hopes to lead Morocco as captain in that competition, hoping the team can finally capture the continental title. He concluded by urging fans to stay supportive, noting that “the kingdom’s football future is brighter than ever.”