Hakimi Granted Leave to Rejoin PSG, Will Miss Morocco’s Match Against Lesotho

Morocco Defender Set to Return to Club Duties

Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has been granted permission to return to his club early and will miss Morocco's upcoming friendly against Lesotho on June 12.

Hakimi's Absence a Blow to Morocco

Hakimi's absence is a blow to Morocco's preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations, which begins in January 2024. The full-back has been a key player for the Atlas Lions, making 45 appearances and scoring five goals since his debut in 2016.

Morocco is scheduled to face Lesotho in a friendly match on June 12 as part of their preparations for the Cup of Nations. The match will be held in Rabat, Morocco.

Hakimi's return to PSG will allow him to prepare for the club's pre-season tour of Japan, which begins on July 19.

Morocco Still Confident Despite Hakimi's Absence

Despite Hakimi's absence, Morocco coach Walid Regragui remains confident that his team can perform well in the Africa Cup of Nations.

"We have a strong squad and we are confident that we can achieve our goals," Regragui said. "Hakimi is a great player, but we have other players who can step up and fill his shoes."

Morocco is ranked 22nd in the FIFA World Rankings and is one of the favorites to win the Africa Cup of Nations.