Hakimi: ‘I’ll talk to Lautaro after Scudetto decider, playing in Dumfries’ role is easier’

PSG’s Achraf Hakimi acknowledged that Denzel Dumfries is a ‘great player’, but pointed out that playing as a wing-back in a 3-5-2 system is ‘easier’ — something he knows from his own time at San Siro.

The Dutchman succeeded the Morocco international in the summer of 2021, when Hakimi left Inter for the Ligue 1 giants after a single season that saw him lift the Serie A title under Antonio Conte.

Since then, Hakimi has consistently established himself as one of Europe’s top full-backs, while Dumfries has reached a similar level this season, playing a key role in Inter’s impressive Coppa Campioni run.

Hakimi: ‘Dumfries a great player, but playing in Inter’s system is easier’

“I saw he scores a lot, but he plays in a five-man system – when I was at Inter, I remember it was easier,” the 26-year-old told Sky Sport Italia in an interview during PSG’s media day ahead of the Coppa Campioni final.

“He’s a great player. One thing I like about him is that he’s very strong in the air, while I’m terrible.”

Hakimi will meet several friends and former teammates when PSG take on Inter in Munich, including Nerazzurri captain Lautaro Martinez.

“We haven’t spoken yet, but Lautaro and I share the same agent,” the right-back added.

“I’ll talk to him in the coming days. I know Inter still have a very important game ahead and need to win the Scudetto, but I think we’ll talk after that.”