Luis Enrique discu-ceshiPost-PandaTV

Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique minimized the comparisons between Achraf Hakimi and Trent Alexander-Arnold of Real Madrid, recognizing both as top-tier players but giving particular commendation to the Moroccan.

As fans and analysts continue to argue over who has the advantage between two of football’s most exciting full-backs, the Spaniard has opted to shift the emphasis from rivalry to appreciation.

"Well, I prefer not to analyze or compare players, because in this competition, all of them are top-quality athletes, no doubt about it," Enrique stated to the media.

"However, I must say that (Achraf) Hakimi is undoubtedly one of the best right-backs that I have both trained and observed throughout my career.

"It’s truly wonderful to have such players on my team. I could also mention the left-back, Nuno Mendes; they are both of the highest caliber. It’s a genuine pleasure to manage them."

Both players will compete against each other on Wednesday as Real Madrid faces the European champions PSG in their pursuit of reaching the FIFA Club World Cup final, where Chelsea from the Premier League awaits.

Hakimi has been an influential figure in the Parisian squad, playing a crucial role in the club’s successes in Ligue 1 and the Champions League, as well as aiding the team in reaching the Club World Cup semi-final.

Remarkably, the 26-year-old right-back has recorded 26 direct goal contributions this season (11 goals and 15 assists), the highest ever achieved by a defender in a single season, surpassing the previous record held by Dani Alves.

Alexander-Arnold, on the other hand, has also had an exceptional season, playing a vital role in Liverpool’s Premier League victory and solidifying his reputation as one of the world’s premier right-backs before transferring to the LaLiga giants.

Enrique also avoided discussing Alexander-Arnold's teammate, Kylian Mbappe, prior to the semi-final. The French star left PSG on a free transfer last summer following a prolonged contract dispute, eventually joining Real Madrid in a move that left the Ligue 1 club feeling frustrated.

"This is a question regarding the past, and I’m not here to discuss the past; I’m focused solely on the future," Luis Enrique remarked at his pre-match press conference.

This could be Mbappe’s first match against PSG since his transfer to Real Madrid in 2024. Notably, he has not yet scored or assisted in any of his four previous encounters with his former club; this is the most he has faced a single team without contributing a goal in his career.