Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Moroccan national team defender, Achraf Hakimi, has been charged with rape by French prosecutors following allegations made by a 24-year-old woman. The Madrid-born player was questioned by prosecutors on Thursday and charged the same day.
PSG Manager Chtistoff Galtier
PSG Manager Christoff Galtier refused to comment on the matter, but did confirm that Hakimi was being treated for a muscle injury he sustained during the World Cup and that he hoped to be available for PSG’s upcoming matches against Bayern Munich and Nantes.
“I will not answer any questions about off-the-field matters regarding Achraf Hakimi. He trained individually 48 hours ago due to a muscle injury that dates back to the World Cup. The goal is for him to be available for the match against Bayern.”
Christoff Galtier (PSG Manager)
The allegations against Hakimi claim that he paid for his accuser to travel to his home in Boulogne-Billancourt while his wife and children were on holiday. The woman reported the incident to the police on Sunday and was questioned by prosecutors on Wednesday.
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Hakimi’s lawyer denies the allegations, while the alleged victim wants to keep the matter out of the media. Being charged does not necessarily mean the case will go to trial, but Hakimi could face disciplinary action from PSG if the allegations are proven true.
Achraf Hakimi is permitted to leave French soil despite the charge and may still play in PSG’s upcoming matches. The news of the charge has sent shockwaves throughout the football community, highlighting the importance of addressing issues of sexual assault and rape in the sport.
Conclusion
The situation is still developing, and it remains to be seen what impact the allegations will have on Hakimi’s career and the wider football community.