Hakimi explains why he snubbed Chelsea offer to join PSG

The Morocco international confirmed he had a choice between Chelsea and PSG but ultimately felt a move to France was his best option.

Achraf Hakimi has claimed he favored a summer move to Paris Saint-Germain over Chelsea as he felt he would be ‘happy’ there.

Inter Milan’s financial problems in the summer saw Hakimi leave the San Siro after one season. The 22-year-old arrived in Paris at the beginning of July in a €60 million deal.

The likes of Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, Georginio Wijnaldum, and Gianluigi Donnarumma soon joined Hakimi at the Parc des Princes to form an all-new conquering side intent on winning the Champions League.

“I had two offers,” the former Real Madrid full-back told L’Equipe. “One from Chelsea and one from Paris Saint-Germain. But I felt I had to come to Paris, that I would have been happy there.

“PSG is a great club. I really appreciate the support the fans gave me straight away. I was lucky because so many other champions joined me. I feel good at PSG, we have a dream team and I’m happy to be a part of it.”

Hakimi has made nine appearances in all competitions for PSG this season and has already scored three goals, including a brace in the club’s 2-1 midweek win over Metz in Ligue 1.

After another league match against Montpellier on Saturday, Mauricio Pochettino’s men will face Manchester City in the Champions League next Tuesday.