Mustapha El Hadaoui, President of the Moroccan Professional Players’ Union, has thrown his full support behind Achraf Hakimi, backing the Paris Saint-Germain defender to claim the 2025 Ballon d’Or following his outstanding season for both club and country.
Speaking to Kooora, El Hadaoui said, “For me, Achraf Hakimi should be the winner of this year’s Ballon d’Or. His performances and consistency in all competitions are unprecedented for a right-back.”
El Hadaoui highlighted Hakimi’s impressive workload, noting that the Moroccan star featured in nearly 70 matches this season, combining duties for PSG and the national team.
His contributions were crucial in helping PSG secure multiple trophies, including a historic first UEFA Champions League title.
He further credited Hakimi for playing a pivotal role in leading Morocco’s national team to a silver medal finish at the most recent Olympic Games.
“He also led the Atlas Lions to second place in the last Olympic Games.”
“Many African football legends agree that Hakimi is the best this year, and unless factors outside the sport influence him, no one else deserves the award. It would be unfair not to crown him.”
The official list of Ballon d’Or nominees is scheduled for release on August 7, with Hakimi among the leading African contenders. Others reportedly in the conversation include Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembélé.
