- Kylian Mbappe has spoken out in support of his close friend Achraf Hakimi, who is currently entangled in a legal battle
- Hakimi was accused by a woman of a non-consensual act stemming from an incident that allegedly happened two years ago
- If convicted, the Moroccan international could face up to 15 years in prison, putting his football career at serious risk
On the night of February 25, 2023, what began as a private meeting at Achraf Hakimi’s home in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb on the outskirts of Paris, spiralled into a legal battle that continues to cast a long shadow.
A 24-year-old woman claims she was invited to the PSG defender’s residence after the two connected on Instagram in January.
Source: Getty Images
According to her, Hakimi arranged transportation for her visit. Upon arrival, she alleges he kissed and touched her without consent and forced her into sexual activity despite her objections.
She says she managed to leave shortly after and contacted a friend for help.
Though she did not immediately file a formal complaint, she informed the police the following day.
Text messages exchanged with friends about the incident were later submitted as evidence.
By March 3, 2023, Hakimi had been placed under formal investigation, equivalent to being charged under French law.
Mbappé testifies in favour of Hakimi
In the midst of mounting scrutiny, Hakimi has found a public ally in Kylian Mbappé.
The Real Madrid striker, widely seen as one of football’s most influential voices, offered testimony backing his teammate and friend.
“Achraf Hakimi is respectful toward women. Even when drinking, I’ve never seen him behave inappropriately,” Mbappé stated as quoted by MWN.
He also shared that he had never heard of any woman claiming the Moroccan international had crossed a line.
Mbappé opened up about the night Hakimi learned about the investigation. He described his friend as deeply shaken, saying he cried and was overwhelmed with emotion.
Source: Getty Images
The striker hinted at doubts surrounding the accusation, pointing to messages exchanged by the woman that raised eyebrows.
In one, she reportedly said, “We’re going to rob him,” a statement she later claimed was a stress-relieving joke.
Hakimi’s football career in jeopardy if found guilty
The timing of the renewed spotlight on the case couldn’t be more delicate.
Hakimi has recently enjoyed a surge in recognition following standout performances on the pitch, especially with PSG.
The 26-year-old helped PSG clinch the Coupe de France, Ligue 1, and the Holy Grail, the UEFA Champions League, in a historic 2024/25 campaign.
He, however, couldn’t help the French giants go one step further in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup, where his side were humbled by Chelsea.
If the court rules against him, Hakimi could face up to 15 years behind bars.
According to the Daily Mail, the final decision now lies with the investigating judge, who must decide whether to proceed to trial or dismiss the recommendation entirely.
Hakimi’s lawyer reacts to push for criminal trial
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Achraf Hakimi’s lawyer addressed the push by prosecutors for criminal charges and a trial over the alleged non-consensual incident.
Hakimi has firmly denied the accusations, with his legal counsel describing the charges as “incomprehensible.”
Source: YEN.com.gh
