The relationship between Real Madrid and some of its former players and targets hasn't always been straightforward. While the club seeks to strengthen its team, the chances of bringing back talents developed in its academy seem to be fading. One of the most talked-about names is Achraf Hakimi, a PSG full-back and former "La Fábrica" player, whose return to Bernabéu seems, for now, impossible.
The Urgency of a Right-back
The recent injury of Dani Carvajal during a match against Villarreal has exposed a clear weakness in Real Madrid. Lucas Vázquez, tasked with covering the right flank in the absence of the Leganés player, has struggled to meet the team's demands. This, combined with the age of Carvajal and Vázquez, has led the club to explore the market.
Among the candidates, Trent Alexander-Arnold stands out, whose contract with Liverpool is expiring soon. However, Real Madrid has also considered other options in the past, like Reece James or even Achraf Hakimi. The latter, developed in the youth ranks of the club, has emerged as one of the great stars in his position.
Why Isn't Achraf Hakimi Returning?
Although Achraf Hakimi would be a top-level addition, his return to Santiago Bernabéu faces significant obstacles. First, the Moroccan is under contract with Paris Saint-Germain until 2026 and is close to renewing, according to several reports.
Second, the tensions between Real Madrid and PSG complicate any negotiation. The Parisian team doesn't seem willing to facilitate the departure of one of its figures to the club.
Journalist Álvar González, in reply to a query from the newspaper AS, confirmed these barriers. "It seems complicated that PSG is willing to sell any player to the club and even less one of its stars," he stated.
The Connection with Mbappé and the Future of the Full-back
The situation of Achraf Hakimi is also indirectly linked to Kylian Mbappé. The Frenchman, another of Florentino Pérez's major targets, maintains a close friendship with the Moroccan full-back. However, this personal relationship doesn't seem enough to force Achraf's return or to ease the relationship between the two clubs.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid will continue to seek alternatives to strengthen a key position in Carlo Ancelotti's scheme. The priority is clear: to ensure a right-back who can compete at the highest level and secure the team's stability in the near future.