Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Achraf Hakimi, a central figure in Morocco’s 2026 World Cup campaign, is set to face trial in Spain on charges of sexual assault, but his teammates and the club have publicly declared their support.

The case, which has drawn global attention, involves allegations dating back to 2020 in Barcelona. Hakimi, 24, has maintained his innocence, while his legal team has denied any wrongdoing. The trial, originally scheduled for May, has been delayed until at least June 2024, according to Spanish judicial sources.

In a rare public show of solidarity, PSG teammates—including Kylian Mbappé, Vitinha, and Marco Verratti—have expressed their backing for Hakimi. The club itself has remained officially neutral, though internal sources suggest private discussions among players to address the situation.

Why This Case Matters for Hakimi and Morocco’s Football Future

Hakimi is not just a PSG player; he is a national icon in Morocco, where he was named “the model” by teammates and fans alike. His legal troubles come at a critical juncture for the North African nation, which is preparing for the 2026 World Cup as hosts. The case raises questions about how such controversies could impact player morale and Morocco’s global image.

Morocco’s national team, managed by Walid Regragui, has faced scrutiny over its handling of high-profile player issues in the past. Hakimi’s status as a leader on and off the pitch—he captained Morocco at the 2022 World Cup—adds weight to the situation. A conviction could have repercussions for his eligibility to play in future international competitions, though legal experts note that such cases often take years to resolve.

Key figures:

• Achraf Hakimi (PSG/Morocco) – Midfielder, 24 years old
• Kylian Mbappé (PSG/France) – Forward, PSG captain
• Walid Regragui (Morocco) – National team manager
• Barcelona (Spain) – Where the alleged incident occurred (2020)

PSG’s Response: Silence from the Club, Unity Among Players

While PSG has not issued an official statement, internal communications and player interviews suggest a united front. Mbappé, Hakimi’s teammate and close friend, has been vocal in private circles about the need for support. “We all know Achraf. He’s one of us,” a source close to Mbappé told Marca.

The club’s legal department has been actively involved in coordinating with Hakimi’s defense team, though details remain confidential. PSG’s policy of avoiding public commentary on players’ legal matters—seen in past cases involving players like Neymar and Edinson Cavani—appears to be in place here as well.

Contrast this with Barcelona, where Hakimi played from 2018 to 2021. The Catalan club has maintained a low profile, though some former teammates have privately expressed concern. “It’s a tough situation for everyone involved,” said a source familiar with the case.

Legal Timeline: What Happens Next?

The trial is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with proceedings likely to be held in Barcelona’s Court No. 13, which handles serious criminal cases. Hakimi’s defense team is preparing a case centered on alibi evidence and character witnesses, including PSG and Morocco teammates.

Key dates:

• May 2024: Original trial date, later postponed
• June 2024: New trial window (exact date pending)
• 2026: Potential impact on Morocco’s World Cup preparations

Legal experts consulted by El País note that Spanish courts often take months to deliver verdicts in high-profile sexual assault cases. If convicted, Hakimi could face up to 15 years in prison, though plea deals or reduced sentences are possible.

Reader handhold: For context, Spain’s legal system operates on the principle of “beyond reasonable doubt,” meaning prosecutors must prove guilt with near-certainty. Hakimi’s team is expected to challenge the credibility of the accuser and present evidence of his alibi.

Morocco’s Stakes: A National Figure Under Scrutiny

Hakimi’s legal battle intersects with Morocco’s broader football ambitions. As the only African nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup as hosts, the country is under intense pressure to deliver. His case adds another layer of complexity to an already high-stakes environment.

Moroccan fans, who have rallied behind Hakimi in the past—chanting his name during matches and celebrating his goals—may now face a dilemma. Some supporters have taken to social media to demand justice, while others express fear of how the case could affect the team’s unity. “He’s our pride,” one fan told Jeune Afrique, “but we want the truth to come out.”

The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has not issued a public statement, though internal sources suggest they are monitoring the situation closely. Regragui, the national team manager, has avoided direct questions on the matter, focusing instead on the team’s preparations for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

International Reactions: From Silence to Solidarity

While PSG and Morocco have shown support, the global football community has largely remained silent. FIFA and UEFA have not commented on the case, adhering to their policies of avoiding public statements on players’ legal matters unless directly relevant to competition rules.

In contrast, some high-profile figures have weighed in. Former Barcelona teammate Gerard Piqué, now a media personality, shared a message of support on social media, though he stopped short of endorsing Hakimi’s innocence. “We all hope for the best,” Piqué wrote.

This silence reflects a broader trend in modern football, where clubs and governing bodies often tread carefully to avoid reputational risks. However, the case also highlights the growing expectations for transparency and accountability in sports.

What’s Next for Hakimi?

Hakimi continues to train with PSG, though reports suggest he has reduced his social media activity. The club’s preseason preparations, set to begin in July, will be a critical test of how his teammates and coaches support him.

Legally, the next few weeks will be decisive. If the trial proceeds as scheduled, a verdict could come by late 2024. In the meantime, Hakimi’s future with PSG and Morocco remains uncertain. “Football is his life,” said a source close to the player. “But right now, everything is about the courtroom.”

Next checkpoint: Trial proceedings in Barcelona (exact date TBD). Follow updates via PSG’s official channels and Morocco’s Football Federation.

Key Takeaways

• Legal battle: Hakimi faces trial in Spain on sexual assault charges, with proceedings delayed until June 2024.
• PSG solidarity: Teammates like Mbappé have shown private support, though the club remains officially neutral.
• Morocco’s stakes: As World Cup hosts, the country watches closely as Hakimi’s case could impact national unity.
• Global silence: FIFA, UEFA, and major clubs have avoided public comment, reflecting cautious handling of legal controversies.
• Next steps: Trial to begin soon; verdict expected by late 2024.