PSG Gives Hakimi Planned Breather Ahead of International Duty

Paris Saint-Germain will host Troyes without one of their most relentless engines. Achraf Hakimi, usually untouchable on the team sheet, has been deliberately left out of the squad to give the Morocco international a much-needed pause after an intense run of games.

This is no punishment, no tactical snub. It is load management at the elite level.

The club confirmed the call in an official statement, making clear it was a joint decision from the bench and the boardroom: “In agreement with the coach and the sporting director, Achraf Hakimi will benefit from a rest period until the start of the international break.” In other words, PSG are protecting one of their key assets before the calendar tightens again.

Hakimi has been everywhere since the start of the campaign. Up and down the right flank, defending his zone, launching counters, stretching defences. The minutes have piled up, and so have the sprints. With his national team camp looming, PSG have chosen caution over short-term gain.

The timing is no accident. Morocco are set to welcome Hakimi back to the Atlas Lions’ setup next week, with two fixtures against Niger on the horizon. Club and country both want him sharp. PSG have simply moved first to ensure he gets there in one piece.

His absence against Troyes opens the door for David Boly, who is expected to step into the right-back role. It is a significant responsibility: replacing one of the most dynamic full-backs in Europe, even for one league match, is no small assignment. Yet this is precisely the sort of opportunity that can reshape a player’s standing in the squad.

For PSG, the equation is clear. One game without Hakimi now, in the hope of many decisive ones later in the season.