Football sometimes creates bonds that extend far beyond the pitch. With just over a month to go before the FIFA World Cup 2026, Achraf Hakimi was spotted in Paris alongside his former Morocco national team coach, Walid Regragui.
On paper, there was nothing particularly unusual about it: a player and his former coach, who shared a historic journey together, meeting over dinner in a Moroccan restaurant in Paris’s 17th arrondissement. Yet, given the current context and their shared past, the meeting quickly drew attention.
A relationship that goes beyond football
The bond between Hakimi and Regragui has always appeared especially strong.
Regragui, the former head coach of the Atlas Lions, was the one who handed Hakimi the captain’s armband following Romain Saïss’s decline in form and physical condition. During their time working together, both men consistently displayed mutual respect and closeness.
Regragui also stood firmly by Hakimi’s side during his injury struggle ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, when his participation in the tournament was in doubt.
After Regragui left his role, Hakimi paid a heartfelt tribute to him, saying: “Walid Regragui, thank you for the exceptional work you have done as head coach of the Moroccan national team. Your leadership, passion, and vision inspired not only the players but an entire nation. (…) Thank you for making us dream and for carrying our colors with such pride. Legend.”
These words reflected the deep mutual respect between the two men. In return, Regragui has also consistently shown strong support for Hakimi, particularly during his serious injury scare that threatened his participation in the last Africa Cup of Nations.
A symbolic reunion before a major global stage
This latest reunion in Paris reinforces the impression of a relationship built on trust, respect, and shared ambition. As Morocco prepares for another major chapter on the world stage at the 2026 World Cup, moments like this highlight the unity that continues to surround key figures of the national team.
