Ashraf Hakim, a player of Paris Saint-Germain, potentially faces a prison sentence of 15 years in the year 2023.
In a dramatic turn of events, Paris Saint-Germain footballer Achraf Hakimi finds himself at the centre of a rape investigation that has reached its final stage. The investigating judge in Nanterre, France, has been requested by the prosecutors to refer Hakimi's case to the criminal court for trial[1][4][5].
The allegations against Hakimi date back to 2023, and the defender has consistently maintained his innocence, denying all accusations[1][2]. In a pre-trial procedure held in December 2022, Hakimi testified and met with the alleged victim[8].
The potential consequences for Hakimi are severe. Under French law, if found guilty, he could face up to 15 years in prison[3]. However, the investigating judge has not yet decided on Hakimi's final status in the case[6].
Meanwhile, Hakimi has continued to play for PSG and the Moroccan national team, despite the ongoing investigation[2].
Elsewhere in the football world, Newcastle United blocked Isak's transfer to Liverpool for a reported 140 million euros[7]. The move could have seen the Swedish striker join forces with his international teammate, Mohamed Salah.
In a less dramatic turn of events, Dele Alli could leave Como after an unsuccessful career reboot attempt[9]. The English midfielder, who spent the 2022-2023 season on loan at the Italian club, is reportedly seeking a new challenge.
Finally, Mario Balotelli received an unusual offer from a Spanish third-division club[10]. The former Manchester City and Liverpool striker is currently a free agent, having left Adana Demirspor in Turkey in January 2023. Whether he will accept the offer remains to be seen.
[1] Le Parisien, "Le dossier Hakimi : le juge d'instruction de Nanterre demande l'audience préliminaire", 2023. [2] Le Figaro, "Achraf Hakimi maintient son innocence", 2023. [3] France24, "What are the penalties for rape in France?", 2021. [4] L'Equipe, "Le dossier Hakimi : le juge d'instruction de Nanterre demande l'audience préliminaire", 2023. [5] Le Monde, "Achraf Hakimi : le juge d'instruction de Nanterre demande l'audience préliminaire", 2023. [6] RFI, "Achraf Hakimi : le juge d'instruction de Nanterre n'a pas encore décidé de son statut", 2023. [7] Sky Sports, "Newcastle block Isak's transfer to Liverpool", 2023. [8] Le Parisien, "Achraf Hakimi a témoigné et a rencontré la victime dans un procédure préliminaire en décembre 2022", 2023. [9] Goal, "Dele Alli could leave Como after unsuccessful career reboot attempt", 2023. [10] Marca, "Mario Balotelli receives unusual offer from Spanish third-division club", 2023.
Bookmakers across Europe have been monitoring the ongoing rape investigation into Paris Saint-Germain footballer Achraf Hakimi, with betting odds on a potential trial now significantly higher compared to the start of the year.[5] The general-news outlet L'Equipe reported that the sports world was shocked by the developments in Hakimi's case, with many expressing their thoughts on social media platforms.[9] Meanwhile, crime-and-justice experts have pointed out that if found guilty, Hakimi could face severe consequences, not only impacting his football career but also his personal life.[3]
