Arsenal legend Martin Keown heaped praise on Achraf Hakimi earlier today, as Morocco recorded a 2-1 win over Canada at the World Cup.
What’s the story?
Well, the Paris Saint-Germain speedster was hailed by Keown as he helped Morocco reach the Round of 16 at the World Cup.
Hakimi – who actually rejected Arsenal to join PSG in a £60m deal – performed heroically for Morocco before being substituted in the 85th minute, to ensure he is fit and fresh for the knockout phase.
After Walid Regragui made the substitution, Keown said live on BBC Two: “Wrapping Hakimi up in cotton wool I think. He does really well on that right hand side.”
By the sounds of it, the 56-year-old is a big fan of the Morocco international, and would have presumably loved to see him running riot at the Emirates Stadium.
The 24-year-old is undoubtedly one of the best right-backs in Europe, and his ability to make an impact in the attacking third is almost unrivalled among defenders.
So far this season, Hakimi has scored three goals and provided three assists in all competitions for PSG.
Arsenal could have second chance to sign Hakimi
Interestingly, Hakimi’s future at the Parc des Princes has been plunged into uncertainty, following rumours that his close friend Kylian Mbappe wants to leave Paris.
According to Foot Mercato in France, Mbappe is unhappy at PSG, and if he leaves, Hakimi could follow.
The Moroccan is said to be distant from his other teammates in Paris apart from the France international, and should the prolific PSG No.7 depart, Hakimi could follow.
Therefore, all hope may not be lost for Arsenal just yet, after previously being rejected by the right-back.
There is certainly space for an outstanding option to arrive in that department for Mikel Arteta, who is currently using a centre-back in Ben White at right-back.
In that respect, anything is possible for the Gunners.
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