Zinedine Zidane pays tribute to debutant Achraf Hakimi

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has said that 18-year-old debutant Achraf Hakimi proved that he had what it takes to be a Los Blancos player during Sunday's 2-0 win over Espanyol.

With Dani Carvajal and Marcelo both unavailable for the La Liga match, Achraf was handed his first-team debut for the Spanish champions.

The three-time Moroccan international impressed with his performance at right-back, and Zidane has revealed that he 'will not be afraid to continue playing the teenager'.

"Achraf? It's an opportunity for him, he's part of the squad and he wants to prove he can play," Zidane told reporters.

"He has done well and with this being his first match, he got involved and showed I could count on him. I won't be afraid of playing him. Carvajal isn't available, so he has a chance."

Achraf, meanwhile, revealed his delight at making his Real Madrid bow when questioned on Sunday night.