Paris – Moroccan football star Achraf Hakimi is setting his sights on one of the most coveted prizes in the sport: the Ballon d’Or. The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defender, widely regarded as one of the best in his position, has expressed confidence that his performances this season have earned him a place among the contenders for the prestigious award.
Speaking to French broadcaster Canal+ on Saturday, the 26-year-old said he believes his achievements in the past year place him firmly in the conversation for the title of the world’s best football player.
“I’ve played a historic season,” Hakimi said during the interview. “I believe I deserve the Ballon d’Or.”
A Remarkable Season for a Defender
Hakimi’s confidence stems from a standout campaign that has seen him deliver remarkable numbers for a player in his position. Traditionally, defenders rarely feature among Ballon d’Or frontrunners, with the award often dominated by prolific attackers. Yet, the Moroccan full-back has defied those odds, scoring 11 goals across all competitions this year.
These goals, combined with his defensive solidity, relentless pace, and versatility, have made him an invaluable asset for PSG. In modern football, where full-backs are expected to contribute as much in attack as they do in defense, Hakimi has set a new standard.
Champions League Triumph Adds Weight to His Case
The season’s crowning achievement came when PSG lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy, cementing their status as Europe’s top club. The victory not only secured Hakimi’s first Champions League title but also elevated his reputation on the global stage.
In addition to the Champions League, PSG enjoyed domestic success, adding the Ligue 1 title to their cabinet. The club’s dominance this season was underpinned by the performances of key players like Hakimi, who consistently delivered in high-pressure matches.
His attacking contributions from the right flank, combined with his defensive resilience, have been hailed by fans and analysts alike as critical to PSG’s historic run.
PSG Dominates Ballon d’Or Nominee List
This year’s Ballon d’Or shortlist underscores PSG’s dominance. The Parisian club has nine players nominated for the award — a remarkable testament to the team’s depth and quality. Among them is Ousmane Dembélé, widely regarded as the current favourite for the title.
Dembélé enjoyed a phenomenal season, scoring an astonishing 35 goals in all competitions. His clinical finishing, creativity, and consistency have made him a strong candidate to lift the trophy on 22 September in Paris.
While the spotlight is currently on Dembélé, Hakimi’s case is unique. Should he win, he would join a rare group of defenders to claim the Ballon d’Or, following in the footsteps of legends such as Fabio Cannavaro, who won the award in 2006 after captaining Italy to World Cup glory.
The Road to Recognition
Hakimi’s journey to the top has been anything but conventional. Born in Madrid to Moroccan parents, he rose through the ranks at Real Madrid’s academy before making a name for himself during loan spells at Borussia Dortmund. His pace, stamina, and technical ability quickly made him one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe.
After a successful stint with Inter Milan, where he helped the club secure the Serie A title, Hakimi joined PSG in 2021. Since then, he has established himself as a key figure in the squad, forming a formidable partnership with some of the world’s best attackers and contributing significantly to both domestic and European campaigns.
His international career with the Moroccan national team has also boosted his profile. Hakimi was instrumental in Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar — the first time an African nation had reached that stage. That achievement alone placed him among the most celebrated African footballers of his generation.
Breaking Barriers for African and Arab Players
Should Hakimi win the Ballon d’Or, it would mark a historic milestone for African and Arab football. The last African player to claim the award was George Weah in 1995, and no Arab player has ever won it.
For Moroccan fans, Hakimi’s nomination is already a source of immense pride. Across Africa and the Middle East, his success story is seen as an inspiration for aspiring footballers who dream of breaking into the elite ranks of world football.
Football analysts note that his combination of technical skill, tactical intelligence, and athleticism embodies the modern game’s demands. His nomination also challenges the long-standing bias that favours attacking players in individual awards.
Ballon d’Or Ceremony to be Held in Paris
The anticipation will culminate on 22 September when the Ballon d’Or ceremony takes place in Paris. Football’s brightest stars will gather for the event, with the world watching to see who will be crowned the best player on the planet.
For Hakimi, simply being in contention is a career highlight — but he is determined to aim higher. His belief in his own candidacy reflects the confidence of a player who has reached the peak of his abilities and is unafraid to set lofty goals.
“I’ve always believed in working hard and giving my best,” he told Canal+. “This season, I’ve done that at the highest level. Now, it’s up to the voters.”
An Award Beyond Numbers
While statistics like goals and assists often dominate award debates, the Ballon d’Or also rewards influence, consistency, and moments that define a season. Hakimi’s blend of attacking impact, defensive reliability, and leadership in critical games could sway some voters in his favour.
Even if he does not win, a top-five finish would be a significant achievement for a defender — and an acknowledgment of his role in PSG’s remarkable season.
As September approaches, the football world will continue to debate the merits of each nominee. Whether Hakimi lifts the trophy or not, his performances this season have already ensured his place among the elite, and his story continues to inspire fans from Morocco to Paris and beyond.
