Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has been included in the team matchday squad ahead of their Champions League play off phase second leg clash against AS Monaco, despite facing trial over an alleged rape case.
On Tuesday, French authorities confirmed that the 27 year old Morocco international will stand trial following allegations made by a 24 year old woman in February 2023. The complaint was filed in the Val de Marne region southeast of Paris. Hakimi has strongly denied any wrongdoing.
Reacting to the development, Hakimi stated on social media that he contests the accusation and believes the trial will allow the truth to emerge publicly. His lawyer, Fanny Colin, also questioned the credibility of the case, alleging that the complainant refused medical examinations DNA tests and access to her mobile phone during the investigation.
In contrast, the plaintiff lawyer Rachel Flore Pardo expressed relief that the matter would proceed to court, describing the handling of the case by the judiciary as exemplary.
Despite the legal proceedings, Hakimi trained with his teammates on Tuesday and remains available for selection. He would ordinarily be a first choice at right back for PSG as they prepare to host Monaco at the Parc des Princes. The French champions hold a 3 2 aggregate advantage following the first leg at Stade Louis II, where Hakimi scored the equaliser in a comeback victory.
PSG head coach Luis Enrique declined to comment extensively on the case, stating that the matter is in the hands of the authorities.
The situation has drawn significant attention in France and beyond, as one of the club key players prepares for an important European fixture while awaiting trial.
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