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Moroccan-born football star Achraf Hakimi has set his sights on one of football’s highest individual honors, declaring he believes he deserves the Ballon d’Or after what he calls a “historic season” with Paris Saint-Germain.
The 26-year-old defender shared his ambitions during an interview with French TV channel Canal+ on Saturday. Confident in his performance over the past year, Hakimi said, “I’ve played a historic season. I believe I deserve the Ballon d’Or.”
A Season of Standout Achievements
Traditionally, defenders have struggled to win the Ballon d’Or, an award that often favors attacking players. However, Hakimi’s statistics this year have been exceptional. Scoring 11 goals in a single season, a rare feat for a defender, he has proved himself to be a decisive force not just in defense but also in attack.
His club, Paris Saint-Germain, crowned an outstanding campaign by winning the Champions League, adding to their domestic success. In recognition of their dominance, nine PSG players have made the shortlist for the coveted award.
Stiff Competition Within His Own Team
Despite his strong case, Hakimi faces fierce competition even from within his own squad. The current favorite is teammate Ousmane Dembélé, who netted an extraordinary 35 goals this season.
Still, Hakimi believes his contribution to PSG’s victories goes beyond statistics. “Football is not just about goals. It’s about impact, leadership, and consistency. I’ve given my all this season,” he noted in the interview.
The Road to Paris
The Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place on 22 September in Paris, where the football world will gather to see who will be crowned the best player of the year. The award, presented annually by France Football, honors the player judged to have delivered the most outstanding performances over the year.
For Hakimi, a win would not only mark personal glory but also make history for Moroccan football.
What This Could Mean for Moroccan Football
If Hakimi were to win, he would become one of the few African players ever to claim the award, joining legends like George Weah. Such an achievement could inspire a new generation of North African footballers and further elevate Morocco’s standing in the sport.
As the countdown to the September ceremony begins, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. Whether or not Hakimi lifts the trophy, his season has already cemented his reputation as one of the most versatile and influential defenders in modern football.
“It’s every player’s dream to win the Ballon d’Or,” Hakimi reflected. “If it’s my time, it will be a moment I’ll never forget.”
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