Achraf Hakimi, 26-year-old right-sided piston of Paris Saint-Germain, stopped by the mixed zone after the 2-3 victory over Lyon (video highlights Lyon/PSG) this Sunday at Groupama Stadium as part of the 23rd day of Ligue 1 2024-2025. In particular, he explained his celebration, which was perceived as a taunt to the Lyon fans.
“It was a dedication to Ilyas (El Maliki) who used to do this celebration during the Kings League. I loved that celebration and I wanted to do it when I scored.”
It’s a reference to Ilyas El Maliki, captain of the Moroccan team in the last edition of the Kings League World Cup, which his compatriot will no doubt appreciate. Still, it was a well-timed gesture that could also be used by Hakimi to respond to the insults of Lyon fans.
But it’s also a reminder that you have to be careful when interpreting a celebration. There’s a lot going on in players’ lives (logically, as there is for everyone) and they like to send out winks that they have that special occasion.
