Reasons that prevented Achraf Hakimi from returning to Real Madrid | OneFootball

What prevented the Moroccan from returning to Madrid?

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From the bustling streets of Casablanca to the grand stage of Paris, Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi has cemented his status as a global superstar with Paris Saint-Germain. His trophy cabinet is already gleaming with silverware won in the French capital, a success reflected in his formidable market valuation, which now stands at a staggering €80 million.

While the siren call of a return to his former club, Real Madrid, has often echoed in transfer rumors, the 26-year-old appears profoundly settled in Paris. The whispers of a Madrid homecoming have been addressed directly by Spanish outlet Marca, which has shed light on the specific reasons why Hakimi's career path did not lead him back to the Spanish giants.

Despite being a product of the Real Madrid academy, Achraf Hakimi's journey took him away from the Spanish capital in the summer of 2018, embarking on a two-season loan to Borussia Dortmund. His official record for his boyhood club would remain frozen at just 17 appearances, two goals, and a single assist.

Following his successful stint in Germany, the Moroccan international was sold to Inter Milan for €43 million. According to revelations from Marca, this departure was not the player's own wish; he firmly believes he was shown the exit door.

Although interest from Real Madrid in re-signing Hakimi has flickered over recent seasons, the Spanish giants never found the right formula to orchestrate a reunion. Compounding the challenge, Paris Saint-Germain stood firm, unwilling to part with their prized asset for anything less than a monumental fee.

This pursuit ultimately led Real Madrid to shift their focus during the last summer transfer window. In their search for a right-back, they instead set their sights on a different Premier League star: Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool.

Meanwhile, Hakimi's bond with Paris has only deepened over the years. Having established himself as an undisputed starter for the French capital club, the defender formalized his commitment in February 2024, signing a contract extension that will keep him at Parc des Princes until June 2029.