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One of the world’s most prominent footballers is now embroiled in a critical legal showdown. Achraf Hakimi, a vital player for Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team, has been ordered by a French investigating judge to stand trial for a rape charge that dates back to 2023.

This comes after a recommendation by prosecutors in Nanterre, who decided that the case should proceed to the next level of investigation. Although no trial date has been set, this means that the case will now be presented before a jury.

The case has been brought by a 24-year-old woman, who alleges that the rape took place at Hakimi’s Parisian home in February 2023. Hakimi was subsequently placed under formal preliminary charges the following month. Under the French judicial system, this means that the investigating judges believe that there is enough evidence to continue with the case, although it is not a conviction.

Hakimi has repeatedly denied the charges. In a statement released on X, he said that he is ready to defend himself against the charges and that he believes that the case will give him a fair hearing.

However, his lawyer, Fanny Colin, reacted negatively to the court’s decision to proceed to trial and confirmed that an appeal will be filed. Colin stated that the case is highly dependent on the complainant’s testimony and questioned the investigation process, particularly the lack of cooperation in some areas. In her opinion, the psychological tests carried out during the investigation did not reveal any post-traumatic symptoms, which questioned the clarity of the charges.

On the other hand, attorney Rachel Flore Pardo, who represents the plaintiff, stated that her client was relieved by the court’s decision. Pardo explained that the decision to proceed to trial was in line with the amount of evidence gathered during the investigation. She also indicated that the case reveals the tensions that exist among elite men’s football as the sport continues to face allegations of misconduct in the post Me Too era.

This case comes at a time when Hakimi is still a key player in PSG’s plans both domestically and in European competitions. When asked whether the case would affect the team or Hakimi’s role as a leader, head coach Luis Enrique refused to comment on the matter, saying that it is up to the courts to decide.

As the case continues in court, the player continues to play professionally, and the final decision is now left to the courts in France.