AFCON 2025: CAF POTY Hakimi training six hours a day to be fit in time for continental showpiece

Morocco’s hopes of making a mark at the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) have received a timely boost as star defender and CAF Player of the Year Achraf Hakimi ramps up his recovery.

After sustaining an injury during PSG’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich, Hakimi is putting in nearly six hours of rehabilitation each day in Spain, determined to be fit in time to lead the Atlas Lions on home soil.

Despite his recent setback, PSG’s Hakimi’s commitment to returning has impressed Morocco’s coaching staff.

Nasser Larguet, who convinced Hakimi to represent Morocco in 2016, revealed that the defender is “doubling his efforts” to ensure he can help his national team.

Coach Walid Regragui echoed the sentiment, describing Hakimi as “sending very reassuring signals” and promising that when he returns, he will be “an animal” on the pitch.

The 27-year-old PSG star confirmed himself: “I will continue my rehabilitation to return to the pitch as soon as possible; I miss it a lot,” adding that his goal is not merely a quick comeback but to arrive at AFCON fully prepared and match-fit.

Hakimi’s determination coincides with a historic accolade, having been named the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year.

The Madrid-born defender became the first defender in 52 years and the first Moroccan since 1998 to claim the award.

With AFCON 2025 taking place in Morocco for the first time since 1988, his leadership, quality, and experience will be vital for the Atlas Lions as they chase continental glory in front of their home crowd.