Achraf Hakimi: Really feel comfortable and enjoying myself in Dortmund

The Moroccan international speaks about his time with Die Schwarzgelben and going back to Madrid.

For Achraf Hakimi, it has been a splendid journey so far with Borussia Dortmund. Arriving on loan from Real Madrid in the summer of 2018, the highly-rated wing-back has been a mainstay for Die Schwarzgelben. Part of a very young squad, Achraf Hakimi delivered eye-catching performances last season along side Jadon Sancho and Paco Alcacer. However, with less then six months remaining for his contract to expire at the Westfalenstadion, the 21 year-old ponders over his future. [KH_ADWORDS type="3" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] “It's still six months until the summer, there are still a lot of games,” says Achraf Hakimi. “What I can say is that right now I am very happy to be at Borussia Dortmund. I feel very comfortable.” While the player definitely has the quality to represent a top club like Madrid, it wouldn't be easy for the young lad to leave the Bundesliga. After all, he has been part of their fantastic journey since his arrival, finishing second and qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. Back in Madrid, Hakimi was rather seen as back-up for Dani Carvajal. But with his performances at Dortmund, he has established himself as their crucial starter ever since joining. Thus, going back to his parent club, the player sees himself as 'a different Achraf' than the one a couple of years ago. [KH_ADWORDS type="4" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS] “I've kicked on, which is something I needed to do, and I'm a better player and am getting regular football, playing week in, week out and really enjoying myself." “That confidence is what allows you to really just express yourself and go out there and play with freedom," Achraf says as he speaks to Bundesliga.com Not to forget, a major credit for Hakimi's success goes to Lucien Favre who has blended the guy into a versatile player. Achraf Hakimi came to Borussia Dortmund as a right-back, but will leave with the qualities to start on the right-wing as well as the left-back positions. [KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News | Article Continues Below"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS] Speaking about his preferred position to play, the Moroccan international says,"I wouldn't be able to tell you which side I'm more comfortable on. But I've learned a lot playing on both flanks and I'm going to keep on doing so. I think it's a real string to my bow." “[Favre and I] have got a really good relationship,” he adds, “He's always looking to help me. He knows I'm young and hungry to learn, and I make sure to listen to him because everything he says to me is true.”