Hakimi credits Enrique with reshaping PSG's team spirit

Achraf Hakimi has acknowledged the profound influence Luis Enrique has had on Paris Saint-Germain’s mentality, describing a transformation that turned the squad into a close-knit unit. The full-back also confirmed his fitness ahead of the Champions League final versus Arsenal.

Since Enrique’s appointment, PSG has won three straight Ligue 1 titles and secured the 2024-25 Champions League trophy. The team now aims for a second European title in the upcoming final. Hakimi told Sky Sport that the coach’s arrival changed the atmosphere within the dressing room, fostering a family-like environment.

“Luis Enrique? He has changed everything at PSG. Since he arrived, everyone has changed their mentality: now we are a team, we play for each other, we run for each other, we are a family. Playing like this, everything becomes easier. I am lucky to be in this team, with these teammates, and this coach. He changed my mentality and my way of being on the pitch. He has made me better as a footballer and as a man,” Hakimi said.

Concerns about Hakimi’s fitness following an injury against Bayern Munich were addressed by Enrique during a recent press conference. The manager assured that the squad is fully prepared for the final in Budapest, emphasizing rest and training to fine-tune tactical details.

Hakimi has been a key player this season, contributing three goals and nine assists in 31 appearances. His overall record at PSG stands at 28 goals and 44 assists in 206 matches. Reflecting on reaching the final again, he said: “Being in the final again? I think it is a very beautiful achievement. It was not an easy path and we are proud to have reached the end of the competition again. But now we must not lose focus because Arsenal are a truly strong opponent.”

Despite preparing for one of the biggest matches of his career, Hakimi maintains close ties to his former club Inter Milan, where he played from September 2020 until his transfer to PSG in July 2021 for around €68 million. He congratulated Inter on their recent Serie A and Coppa Italia successes and mentioned ongoing contact with former teammates, including Lautaro Martínez.

With the Champions League final just 10 days away, PSG is intensifying preparations with a fully fit squad. The reigning French champions face a challenging test against Arsenal, but Hakimi and his teammates are determined to capitalize on their unity and experience to secure another European title.