Achraf Hakimi Suffers Hamstring Tear: Out of Bayern Second Leg, World Cup Fears Eased

Paris Saint-Germain have suffered a significant blow ahead of one of the biggest matches in their season. According to Fabrice Hawkins via RMC Sport, Achraf Hakimi has been diagnosed with a hamstring tear, ruling him out of the second leg of the Champions League semi-finals against Bayern Munich. The news deals a major tactical blow to manager Luis Enrique as PSG protect a narrow advantage in the tie.

How the Injury Occurred

Paris Saint-Germain are set to be without Achraf Hakimi for the Champions League semi-final second leg after the defender sustained a hamstring injury against Bayern Munich. Hakimi was forced off late in the first-leg encounter at the Parc des Princes after pulling up while attempting to close down an opponent. The main concern arose when Hakimi collapsed after stretching his right leg to try to snatch the ball from Laimer.

The Moroccan full-back fell immediately, holding the back of his thigh while the Parisian coaching staff watched with attention and concern. The medical staff responded quickly and initially suspected it was a cramp. However, the match footage suggested a hamstring strain, a more serious injury that raised alarms at the club.

Official PSG Statement

The club released a statement that read: “Having sustained an injury to his right thigh during the match against Bayern Munich, Achraf Hakimi will be out of action for the next few weeks.”

Injury Details and Recovery Timeline

Recovery from a muscle fibre tear typically takes anywhere from two to six weeks depending on severity, which means a Champions League final appearance on June 1st — should PSG advance — remains a realistic but uncertain prospect.

Impact on PSG’s Second Leg vs Bayern

Hakimi played the full 90 minutes of the first leg on Wednesday, providing an assist as PSG won 5-4 in a thrilling encounter at the Parc des Princes. It was the first time in a European semi-final (any competition) that both teams scored 4+ goals, and just the second Champions League knockout-stage match after Chelsea drew 4-4 with Liverpool in the 2008-09 quarter-final. 

Although the Moroccan didn’t contribute much offensively, he did become a key player in containing Bayern Munich’s Luis Diaz by constantly pressuring him and matching his explosive speed. Without him in the second leg, the German side may have far more opportunities to mount a comeback, as the Colombian shines with his dribbling skills and speed.

PSG’s Tactical Reshuffle

Luis Enrique will likely deploy Warren Zaïre-Emery as cover at right-back, and could also bring in Fabián Ruiz to start in midfield alongside Vitinha and João Neves to compensate for the reshuffle. His absence is expected to be a significant blow, given his importance in both defensive stability and attacking transitions from the right flank. Paris Saint-Germain will now have to adjust their tactical setup as they prepare for the decisive second leg without one of their key players, while Bayern Munich head into the fixture with a strengthened advantage in squad availability.

World Cup 2026 Fears Eased for Morocco

The Achraf Hakimi injury carried implications stretching far beyond club football. Morocco’s star defender is a cornerstone of their World Cup 2026 plans, and a serious setback at this point in the season would have sent shockwaves through the national setup. With that in mind, the Moroccan is also not expected to risk his participation in the 2026 World Cup, which comes as a major relief for his national team.

Champions League Final Still Possible

Hakimi could still play a part later in the Champions League campaign should PSG secure progression to the final. Medical staff are reportedly targeting a return in time for the showpiece event, provided rehabilitation proceeds without complications.

Additional PSG Injury Concerns

Alongside the Moroccan’s absence, Paris Saint-Germain will also be without Lucas Chevalier after he picked up an injury in the latest training session. As the backup goalkeeper, his absence does not pose a major issue for head coach Luis Enrique, who is expected to trust Renato Marin as backup in his place while calling up a youth player to fill the third spot. There were also additional concerns over Nuno Mendes, who was substituted late on after appearing to struggle physically.

PSG’s Road to the Final

PSG head to the Allianz Arena next Wednesday holding a one-goal advantage from the first leg. Bayern, who scored four goals on the night, will not need much encouragement. They know they are capable of turning this around. The absence of Hakimi gives them a concrete target to exploit on the right flank.

Read More: 2026 World Cup: Covering Your Mouth Will Get You Sent Off Under New FIFA Rule

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