Bayern Munich have suffered a major blow ahead of their table-topping Champions League clash with Arsenal after Luis Diaz was handed a three-game ban for his red card against Paris Saint-Germain. The Colombia international will subsequently miss his side’s trip to the Emirates Stadium after committing a dangerous challenge on defender Achraf Hakimi.

Achraf Hakimi was crowned African Player of the Year in Rabat after a stunning season with Paris Saint-Germain, edging Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen to the honour. The award sparked an emotional tribute from his close friend Kylian Mbappe, who hailed him as “The King of Africa” in a heartfelt message. Their bond, built at PSG and sustained despite career moves, shone through once again.

Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen missed out as Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi won the African Player of the Year award. The Moroccan full-back collected the honour on Wednesday evening, sealing a triumphant year in which he won the treble, including the Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League trophy. The only blemish was PSG’s defeat in the Club World Cup final to Chelsea in New York, where he was forced to settle for a silver medal.

After suffering a brutal ankle injury against Bayern Munich that left fans fearing the worst, Morocco’s captain Achraf Hakimi may yet rise in time for the Africa Cup of Nations. Coach Walid Regragui has voiced unwavering faith in his “irreplaceable” right-back, insisting Hakimi’s recovery powers and spirit could defy medical timelines.

Toni Kroos has hit out at the decision to send off Luis Diaz during Bayern Munich’s win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, insisting that "it wasn't a red card”. The German and Real Madrid legend believes referee Maurizio Mariani was influenced by Achraf Hakimi’s injury rather than the tackle itself. Diaz, however later apologised publicly, while Bayern backed their forward.