Paris Saint-Germain right-back Achraf Hakimi believes Real Madrid “did not want to bet” on him before he left the Santiago Bernabeu for Inter Milan 2020.
The Moroccan international moved to San Siro on a two-year loan deal with Borussia Dortmund for a reported fee of € 40 million, before switching to PSG for a hefty fee a year later for € 68m.
Hakimi will face his old team in the Champions League on Tuesday when Madrid visits Parc des Princes in the first leg of the 16th round, and he insists that despite playing only nine LaLiga games for Los Blancos, he has no feelings of illness. by them.
Speaking in an interview with Marca before the game in Paris, Hakimi said: “It’s a good game to play and as you know it is a team I have put in my heart for all they have given me. They have made me a person. And as a player, and made me learn.
When asked why he left the Spanish Bulls, he replied: “It is true that when you join Madrid for the first time you come from playing for Castilla and it is common for the club not to bet you too much because you are a player. young player.
“But then when I went to Dortmund, I was loaned out and had two good seasons and I had to come back and make a decision. And then Madrid, I think, had not bet on me, even though I was able to continue playing in one place.
“And when I went to Inter after the transfer they had the option to buy from Madrid and they didn’t use it, so I think Madrid didn’t want to bet on me like other clubs. And I’m happy because I think these clubs were not good at betting on me.”
The 23-year-old has scored six goals (three goals and three assists) in 27 games in all competitions this season for Mauricio Pochettino’s team, and says he is stable in Paris.
“The truth is that I feel comfortable as if I’m at home. People are very welcoming, clubs, fans … Even before I arrived, I just felt love, the club bet me and made. Great efforts.
“And the coach, we had a few conversations and it gave me confidence. The players also welcomed me and told me to calm down and be happy. That’s why I also feel good about them, and I give them the best.”
Hakimi was also delighted to meet another former Madrid player, Sergio Ramos, who joined PSG on a free transfer at the end of last season.
Ramos – who has won numerous trophies in the Spanish capital, including five LaLiga titles and four Champions League titles – has only played five games for PSG due to injury and suspension since arriving in France, but Hakimi believes he will be a key player for the club.
“We were [together] at Real Madrid and he treated me very well even though I was young and from school. We have a very good friend,” Hakimi said.
“The truth is that he surprised me when he left Real Madrid, but I’m glad to have him … I know he will raise us a lot because he is an experienced leader and player. ready for PSG. “
