This week, Hakimi won the Marc-Vivien Foé Award as the best African player in Ligue 1. When PSG signed him from Inter Milan for €50 million in 2021, French media heavily criticized his supposed incompatibility with a four-man defense.

The Moroccan star was one of Europe’s best wing-backs at Borussia Dortmund, but critics doubted his defensive reliability in a back-four system. Now, four years later, Hakimi has silenced all doubts, evolving into a versatile leader for PSG and a Champions League finalist.

After PSG reached the Champions League final—their second in history—Hakimi called Luis Enrique a “genius,” saying: “He helped me reach a level I had never experienced before.” This praise highlights Enrique’s transformative impact on Hakimi, who is now one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking forces, capable of playing as a full-back, winger, midfielder, or even forward.

Luis Enrique, the architect of this transformation, emphasized versatility from day one. Hakimi, no longer just a traditional full-back, embodies this philosophy by cutting inside like a forward. He also leads in the dressing room. Before Enrique’s arrival—arguably Qatar’s best managerial hire in a decade—Hakimi’s future at PSG was uncertain. Rumors even suggested a 2022 exit, especially if Kylian Mbappé hadn’t renewed his contract. But Hakimi, Mbappé’s close friend, has thrived under Enrique, surpassing even his Dortmund peak.

Hakimi’s stats speak for themselves: 21 goal contributions (7 goals, 14 assists) in 50 games this season—his best-ever return. As PSG’s vice-captain, he wore the armband in Marquinhos’ absence during the Champions League quarter-finals.

His role in PSG’s run—scoring crucial goals against Aston Villa and Arsenal—is undeniable. Hakimi and Lucas Hernández are the only PSG players with Champions League-winning experience. His exceptional form makes him vital for Qatar’s dream: PSG’s first UCL title—a goal elusive since 2011 but now within reach. No wonder Hakimi is called Europe’s most valuable €50 million bargain.