Achraf Hakimi Selected for PSG Champions League Squad Amid Rape Trial Announcement

Paris Saint-Germains defender Achraf Hakimi has been named in the squad for the Champions League play-off second leg against Monaco on Wednesday despite facing an impending rape trial.

The 27-year-old Morocco international and PSG right-back will stand trial for allegedly raping a woman according to his lawyer and a French prosecutor on Tuesday. He strongly denies the charges.

In February 2023 a 24-year-old woman reported to police in the Val-de-Marne area south-east of Paris that Hakimi had assaulted her.

Hakimi posted on social media on Tuesday stating Today a rape claim alone suffices to warrant a trial though I refute it entirely and all evidence indicates its falsehood. He added I face this trial with composure as it will reveal the truth to the public.

The defenders solicitor Fanny Colin raised doubts about the accusers involvement in the probe.

Colin remarked A court date was set relying on a claim supported only by the womans statement who blocked all inquiries declined medical checks and DNA sampling resisted examination of her phone and withheld a crucial witnesses identity.

Rachel-Flore Pardo representing the complainant expressed relief that the matter is proceeding to trial.

Pardo noted the judicial process has been handled impeccably.

Hakimi joined PSGs training session on Tuesday and typically secures a starting spot at right-back for the current European title holders as they welcome Monaco to Parc des Princes holding a 3-2 lead from the initial encounter.

Last week Hakimi scored the levelling goal at Monacos Stade Louis II helping PSG overturn a two-goal deficit to secure victory.

Addressing queries on Hakimis legal situation during Tuesdays news conference before the rematch PSG manager Luis Enrique commented This issue falls under the purview of the relevant authorities.