Achraf Hakimi’s exceptional form over the past year has drawn praise from one of football’s biggest stars and fellow Ballon d’Or contender, Ousmane Dembélé, who hailed the Moroccan right-back’s relentless impact on the pitch.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Dembélé highlighted Hakimi’s extraordinary contribution to Paris Saint-Germain’s campaign, singling out his decisive performances in the UEFA Champions League.
“When you look at Achraf Hakimi, he scored in the quarter-finals, the semi-finals and the final,” Dembélé said. “Even though he’s a defender. He defends, he attacks, he makes a huge effort.”
It is a rare but powerful endorsement from a teammate — and a direct rival for the coveted Ballon d’Or — as Hakimi’s name continues to surface in the conversation for world football’s highest individual honour.
Though trained as a defender, Hakimi’s statistics and influence tell a story that goes far beyond his position.
With 65 appearances across all competitions since July 2024, the PSG star has netted 10 goals and registered 14 assists.
His performances have been central to Paris Saint-Germain’s success in Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions, and the Club World Cup.
Domestically and internationally, Hakimi has proved indispensable.
For Morocco, he has added three goals since September, while at club level his versatility and stamina have become vital tools for manager Luis Enrique.
Hakimi’s standout display in PSG’s Club World Cup clash against Seattle, where he delivered a tireless performance in both defence and attack, was emblematic of his season.
His consistent excellence has earned him the nickname “Paris’s super striker” by Le Parisien, a tribute to his attacking instincts and goal-scoring ability despite being a right-back.
Champion reconnaît champion #HakimiBallondOr pic.twitter.com/OUipsiA3M2
— #FreeTouitter 🐦 (@enidron7) June 28, 2025
Whether breaking up opposition play or bombing down the flank to deliver a decisive cross or shot, Hakimi has seamlessly bridged the roles of defender and forward.
Now 26, the former Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund man is entering the prime of his career.
His rare blend of technical precision, physical endurance, and tactical intelligence continues to turn heads and spark serious debate about his Ballon d’Or credentials.
“I’m happy that people think I’m capable of winning the Ballon d’Or,” Hakimi recently admitted. With support from teammates, pundits, and fans alike, his case for the honour grows stronger with each game. As history shows, few defenders claim the prize. But then again, few defenders play like Achraf Hakimi.
