The Achraf Hakimi case, involving accusations of rape dating back to 2023, recently saw the Paris public prosecutor request formal indictment. Amid the investigation, Kylian Mbappé, then Hakimi’s PSG teammate, was questioned by prosecutors in spring 2023. His testimony, disclosed by several media outlets, sheds light on the Moroccan defender’s character.
During his hearing, Mbappé described himself as a very dear, very close friend of Hakimi. He strongly defended his former teammate, stating that Achraf Hakimi is respectful towards women and that he had never witnessed any inappropriate behavior from him, even under the influence of alcohol. Mbappé emphasized that they regularly talk about such matters and have been very careful since the beginning of their careers.
The testimony also recounts Hakimi’s emotional reaction when he learned about the investigation, particularly during the 2023 Best FIFA Awards ceremony. Mbappé said his friend « completely broke down and cried. » Despite the serious charges – with Hakimi facing up to 15 years in prison – Mbappé continues to trust Hakimi’s account and rejects the notion that he could have acted in such a way.
This case reveals the strong bonds among PSG players but highlights the legal complexities inherent in such investigations. The examining magistrate will now decide whether to confirm the indictment, while Hakimi’s defense maintains his innocence.
