Achraf Hakimi’s time at Inter Milan, though relatively brief, was undeniably impactful and remains a significant chapter in his burgeoning career. He joined the Nerazzurri in the summer of 2020 from Real Madrid, having spent the previous two seasons on loan at Borussia Dortmund. Inter paid a reported €40 million (plus add-ons) to secure his services, a clear indication of their belief in his immense potential.
Hakimi’s arrival at Inter was part of Antonio Conte’s ambitious project to revitalize the club and challenge Juventus’ dominance in Serie A. Conte, known for his tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of his players, identified Hakimi as a crucial piece in his 3-5-2 formation. He envisioned Hakimi as the right wing-back, a position that demanded tireless running, exceptional crossing ability, and a keen eye for goal. And Hakimi delivered in spades.
His debut season in Serie A was nothing short of spectacular. Hakimi quickly established himself as one of Inter’s key players, consistently providing attacking impetus down the right flank. His blistering pace, intricate dribbling, and accurate crosses caused constant problems for opposing defenses. He formed a formidable partnership with Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez, the trio becoming a nightmare for defenders across the league.
Statistically, Hakimi’s contributions were outstanding. He scored 7 goals and provided 8 assists in Serie A during the 2020-21 season, a remarkable return for a wing-back. His goals were often crucial, and his assists showcased his vision and ability to pick out teammates in dangerous positions. Beyond the raw numbers, his influence on the team’s overall performance was undeniable. He added a new dimension to Inter’s attack, making them more dynamic and unpredictable.
More importantly, Hakimi played a vital role in Inter’s Scudetto triumph in the 2020-21 season, their first league title in 11 years. His performances were consistently excellent throughout the campaign, and he was widely regarded as one of the best wing-backs in Europe. He seamlessly integrated into Conte’s tactical system and quickly became a fan favorite at the San Siro. His relentless energy, attacking flair, and commitment to the team endeared him to the Inter faithful.
Despite his success and popularity, Hakimi’s time at Inter was cut short due to the club’s financial difficulties. In the summer of 2021, Inter were forced to sell some of their key players to alleviate their financial woes, and Hakimi was unfortunately one of the casualties. He joined Paris Saint-Germain for a reported €60 million, bringing an end to his brief but memorable spell in Milan.
In conclusion, Achraf Hakimi did indeed play for Inter Milan, and he played exceptionally well. His contribution was instrumental to their Scudetto victory, and he left a lasting impression on the club and its supporters. While his tenure was brief, his performances were unforgettable, solidifying his reputation as one of the best attacking full-backs in the world.