Five years after leaving Real Madrid, Achraf Hakimi continues to shine at PSG, leaving many to ponder why his potential wasn’t fully realized at his formative club.

Formed at Real Madrid, Achraf Hakimi always hinted at a promising future. Despite his impressive performances, the Moroccan defender never managed to secure a permanent spot in his boyhood club. His recent display against FC Barcelona at Montjuïc once again showcased his immense talent on the right flank of the Parisian defense, reigniting a persistent debate since his departure: why couldn’t he stay at Real Madrid? This question continues to haunt numerous observers and Madrid supporters, especially as the 26-year-old has established himself as one of the world’s best right-backs.

The Carvajal Conundrum

One of the main barriers to Hakimi’s progression at Real Madrid was none other than Dani Carvajal. The Spanish defender has been a stalwart for Los Blancos, making it difficult for any emerging talent to displace him. Hakimi’s sixth-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, just behind Carvajal who finished fourth, underscores his quality and how close he came to matching the standards set by his former teammate.

The decision to let Hakimi go remains a contentious topic among Madridistas. His performances in Paris have only added fuel to the fire, as he continues to prove his worth on the international stage. The Moroccan’s ability to balance defensive duties with attacking prowess makes him a valuable asset for any team, and it’s this dual capability that Marca highlighted when discussing his Ballon d’Or placement.

A Future Unwritten

The lingering question is whether Real Madrid might one day regret not retaining Hakimi. As he continues to evolve and excel, particularly in high-stakes matches like those against Barcelona, the sense of unfinished business with Madrid grows stronger. The rivalry with Carvajal may have shaped his departure, but it also spurred him on to reach new heights elsewhere.

The story of Achraf Hakimi and Real Madrid is far from over. As he cements his status among the elite right-backs globally, one can’t help but wonder if a return to the Santiago Bernabéu could be on the horizon. Or perhaps, his journey will continue to be written elsewhere, leaving Madrid with a lingering sense of what might have been.