Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique has entered the ever-swirling debate over the world’s best right-back—but rather than stoke comparisons, he chose instead to spotlight the excellence of Achraf Hakimi.
The Moroccan full-back has been central to PSG’s relentless run this season, combining defensive solidity with a level of attacking output rarely seen from defenders. When pressed to weigh Hakimi against Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, Enrique offered a diplomatic answer that ultimately shone brighter for his own player.
“I’m not someone who likes to compare,” Enrique told reporters ahead of PSG’s FIFA Club World Cup semi-final against Real Madrid. “All of these players are of elite quality—there’s no doubt. But Hakimi, for me, is undoubtedly one of the best right-backs I’ve ever coached or even watched. It’s a joy to have him in my squad.”
While refusing to fuel the rivalry narrative, Enrique made it clear just how highly he rates Hakimi’s contributions. The 26-year-old has set a new benchmark this season with 26 direct goal involvements (11 goals, 15 assists)—a record for a defender, eclipsing the previous high set by Dani Alves.
Hakimi’s form has been instrumental in PSG’s charge through Ligue 1, the Champions League, and now the Club World Cup. His energy, precision, and attacking instincts have made him a nightmare for opposing wingers and a reliable weapon in the final third. He’s not just in the conversation with Alexander-Arnold—he’s redefining what’s possible from the position.
Alexander-Arnold, for his part, has also delivered a standout campaign. After helping guide Liverpool to another Premier League crown, the Englishman made a high-profile move to Real Madrid, where he’s continued to thrive in a more inverted midfield role. The upcoming showdown between the two right-backs is one of several fascinating subplots in a fixture brimming with narrative tension.
One of the most charged storylines, however, is the presence of Kylian Mbappé. The French superstar joined Real Madrid on a free transfer last summer, ending years of speculation and a protracted contract saga with PSG. With this match marking his first encounter against his former club, all eyes were on Luis Enrique for comment. But the Spaniard made it clear he wouldn’t entertain questions about the past.
“I’m focused on the future, not the past,” Enrique said, brushing off any reference to Mbappé or the emotional stakes of the reunion.
Mbappé has struggled to make an impact against PSG in the past, with zero goals or assists in four meetings—his most against any opponent without a goal contribution. Whether that trend continues or not, Enrique appears determined to keep his squad’s attention on the task at hand, rather than lingering wounds from the summer’s transfer drama.
As kickoff looms, Hakimi’s form and Enrique’s steady leadership could be key in steering PSG past a loaded Real Madrid side. With Chelsea awaiting in the final, the stakes couldn’t be higher—and neither could the spotlight on two of the game’s most electrifying full-backs.
