Marca: Hakimi Propels Morocco to New Global Standing Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Spanish newspaper Marca affirmed that Achraf Hakimi has become one of the most prominent figures reflecting the significant development of Moroccan football in recent years, noting that the Atlas Lions captain embodies the ambition and status the national team has achieved on the international stage.
The newspaper explained that the Moroccan national team is no longer seen merely as a side capable of surprising or unsettling major teams, but has transformed into a widely respected competitor among the world's strongest national sides, especially after its historic achievement at the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
The same source highlighted that Hakimi will arrive at the 2026 World Cup in the best period of his career, having had an outstanding season with Paris Saint-Germain, winning several prominent titles, in addition to his continental successes with the Moroccan national team.
The Spanish newspaper considered the Moroccan full-back to possess exceptional qualities combining experience, ambition, and leadership, asserting that his influence is no longer limited to his technical performance on the pitch but extends to his pivotal role within the national squad.
Marca added that Morocco enters the 2026 World Cup with greater maturity, experience, and confidence compared to previous editions, benefiting from a talented generation that has accumulated experience at the highest levels and aims to continue making history in the biggest global football event.
The newspaper concluded its report by affirming that the Moroccan national team possesses the ingredients to achieve a new accomplishment at the World Cup, led by Achraf Hakimi, who seeks to add another bright page to Moroccan football's history after the epic performance in Qatar.
