Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi has said he is ready to defend himself in court after learning that he will stand trial over a rape allegation, insisting he looks forward to presenting his side of the story.
Hakimi, 27, who is expected to join the Morocco squad for their match against Scotland later on Friday, had challenged a decision to refer the case to a criminal court.
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However, French media reports indicate that the Versailles Court of Appeal has dismissed his appeal, clearing the way for a future trial.
Reacting to the development, the Moroccan international took to social media platform X, where he expressed frustration over the impact the case has had on his personal life and family.
“Today, a narrative that is not mine is being told at the expense of my family, my life, and, above all, the truth. At times, I feel like I have become an easy target,” Hakimi wrote.
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The defender added that he has been waiting for the opportunity to address the allegations in court and is eager for the legal proceedings to begin.
“I have been waiting for this trial from the very beginning, and I now welcome it because it will finally give me the chance to speak,” he stated.
The date for the trial has not yet been announced. Neither the Versailles Court of Appeal, Hakimi’s legal representatives, Paris Saint-Germain, nor the Moroccan Football Federation immediately commented on the reports.
It also remains unclear whether Hakimi will feature for Morocco in their World Cup fixture in Boston later on Friday.
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The case dates back to 2023 when prosecutors in Nanterre launched an investigation following allegations of rape against the footballer.
At the time, French newspaper Le Parisien reported that a 24-year-old woman accused Hakimi of sexually assaulting her.
Hakimi has consistently denied the allegations and is expected to contest the charges when the case eventually comes before the court.