Kylian Mbappé has officially spoken out in defense of his close friend Achraf Hakimi, who is facing potential trial for alleged rape. According to L’Équipe, the 2018 World Cup winner was heard by French authorities in connection with the investigation into the Moroccan right-back.
Now at Real Madrid, Mbappé described Hakimi as a “very dear, very, very close” friend. He told investigators: “It’s something we talk about regularly. We’re not savages. We’ve been trained for this kind of situation since the start of our careers.”
“I’ve Never Seen Him Behave Inappropriately”
Mbappé emphasized Hakimi’s respectful behavior towards women—even in party settings: “Achraf Hakimi is respectful with women. Even when drunk, I’ve never seen him act inappropriately… Even on the occasions when I wasn’t present, I never heard from any female friends that he had behaved badly or crossed the line.”
The French star also shared a personal moment with investigators, recalling the emotional state of Hakimi the night the allegations were made public by Le Parisien in February 2023—coinciding with the Best FIFA Awards ceremony: “That night, we went to a restaurant. Achraf broke down completely, he cried. He was really not well.”
The case has since led the Nanterre prosecutor to request a criminal trial for rape, with the final decision now in the hands of the investigating magistrate. If Hakimi is sent to trial and convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison. The player continues to deny all accusations.
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