PSG: Achraf Hakimi sidelined against Saint-Etienne!

PSG will have to cope without Achraf Hakimi during their tricky trip to Saint-Etienne for the 27th round of the French Ligue 1 this weekend. The Moroccan defender has been rested as a precaution, a decision made by mutual agreement between the coaching staff and the club's sporting management.

After participating in Morocco's victory against Niger (2-1) but missing the match against Tanzania (2-0), Hakimi will not be on the match sheet this weekend. PSG confirmed this news via a statement on their social media:

“Achraf Hakimi will have a planned rest in agreement with the sporting management and coaching staff.” His return to training is expected on Sunday.

A PSG missing several key players

Hakimi's absence adds to a list of unavailable players for the match against Saint-Étienne. Lee Kang-In, injured in his left ankle during the match between South Korea and Oman (1-1), continues his treatment.

Meanwhile, substitute goalkeeper Arnau Tenas is following a recovery protocol for shoulder pain.

This accumulation of absences complicates PSG's task, which will have to rely on their expanded squad to maintain their momentum in the league.

Careful management ahead of upcoming fixtures

The Parisian club, involved in several competitions, is adopting meticulous management of their key players' physical condition. Resting Hakimi seems to be a preventive measure aimed at avoiding any risk of injury before crucial fixtures.

The Moroccan international, essential in the Parisian setup, is expected to rejoin the group by Sunday and be ready for the upcoming challenges facing the French capital club.

Amine Jomni |

Editorfr

African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.