Enrique expressed his views during a media conference, stating, "I am not a fan of analysing or comparing players, as they are all top-quality players in this competition. However, I must say that Hakimi is one of the best right-backs I have had the chance to train and watch in my career." He also praised his left-back, Nuno Mendes, as a top-level player.

Both Hakimi and Alexander-Arnold will face off on Wednesday as Real Madrid take on PSG in their quest to reach the FIFA Club World Cup final. Hakimi has been a key player in the Parisians' squad, contributing to the team's success in Ligue 1 and the Champions League.

Impressively, Hakimi has made 26 direct goal contributions this season, the highest ever recorded by a defender in a single campaign. This surpasses Dani Alves' previous record. Alexander-Arnold has also delivered an outstanding season, playing a key role in Liverpool's Premier League triumph.

Enrique dodged questions about Alexander-Arnold's teammate, Kylian Mbappe, ahead of the semi-final. Mbappe left PSG on a free transfer last summer and joined Real Madrid, leaving the Ligue 1 club frustrated.

Enrique stated, "This is a question about the past, and I'm not here to talk about the past. I'm only thinking about the future." This could mark Mbappe's first encounter with PSG since his move to Real Madrid.

Notably, Mbappe has yet to register a goal or assist in any of his four previous appearances against his former club, the most he's ever faced a single team without contributing to a goal in his career.