Can PSG afford to lose Achraf Hakimi?

Since joining PSG in 2021, Achraf Hakimi has become the best right-back in the world, and as recently been named African Ballon d'Or. The Morocco international who is currently injured since Luis Diaz's tackle during PSG's loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League has extended his contract at the club until 2029 and his one of the leaders of the squad.

However, his future at the club could be in jeopardy following the latest interview given by his agent Alejandro Camano, to Sport Mediaset.

"He is happy at PSG", he said. "But in football, nothing is impossible, and Real Madrid is his home, where he started with the youth teams."

Following this statement, potentially linking the former Borussia Dortmund player to a return to Real Madrid, the 27-year-old Moroccan has been seen in Spain at Madrid's latest La Liga game against Elche.

Should PSG prepare for Hakimi's departure?

Achraf Hakimi is a key player of the PSG team that lifted three major trophies last season, ending his campaign as the best player at his position. This season, his level did not drop, unfortunately, his side has been hit by numerous injuries, including him as Paris and Luis Enrique failed to find him a suitable backup, leaving the squad short of a player able to replace him when he needs to rest or in the case of a rare injury.

Despite his long injury, he still expect to take part in the upcoming AFCON with Morocco, one of the biggest favourites to win the competition. Therefore, PSG could lose their star right-back for a long time as they will face many tough encounters domestically and in Europe.

To replace him, Luis Enrique has relayed on Warren Zaire-Emery, Joao Neves or even Senny Mayulu. Moreover, the club has been linked with a move for Barcelona's versatile defender Eric Garcia. However, it seems that a move will be difficult to conclude.

Now, Hakimi is set to be at the club until 2029 but has stated by his agent, his future at the club isn't set in stone. Therefore, the club should certainly start thinking about a player able to step up and replace him if he were to leave or gets injured in the future.

The club has now been known to rely on its academy to bring young prospects into the first team with much success, and a young right-back could be the best solution to prepare for a future without Achraf Hakimi.