Hakimi, Bounou and Bouaddi put Morocco in the Ballon d’Or spotlight

Morocco will have three representatives in the spotlight at the Ballon d’Or awards, with Achraf Hakimi, Yassine Bounou and Ayoub Bouaddi featuring in different categories at the prestigious ceremony.

The trio appear on the nomination lists announced by France Football for the 2025-2026 season, highlighting Morocco’s presence among established stars, leading goalkeepers and emerging young talents.

Hakimi is competing for the men’s Ballon d’Or, Bounou is targeting the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper, while Bouaddi hopes to strengthen his reputation among international football’s most promising young players.

Hakimi Targets Individual Honours After PSG Success

Hakimi’s nomination follows an impressive season with Paris Saint-Germain, during which he scored eight goals and provided 10 assists.

The Moroccan defender also contributed to PSG’s success in major competitions, including the French league, the Champions League and the Club Confederations Cup, strengthening his case among the nominees for football’s most prestigious individual award.

His presence among the contenders gives Morocco a prominent representative in the race for the men’s Ballon d’Or.

Bounou Competes for Yashin Trophy

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou is among the contenders for the Yashin Trophy, which recognises the best goalkeeper.

Bounou’s nomination is supported by his performances for Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal in the Roshn League, as well as his participation in the 2026 World Cup, where he faced challenging attacking situations.

The goalkeeper’s inclusion gives Morocco another opportunity to feature prominently at the awards ceremony.

Bouaddi Represents Morocco’s Emerging Generation

Ayoub Bouaddi completes Morocco’s representation, featuring in the Best Young Player category.

The 18-year-old has attracted attention for his defensive contributions and ability to help build attacks, qualities that have placed him among the young talents attracting interest on the European football scene.

His nomination adds a future-facing dimension to Morocco’s presence at the awards, with the midfielder representing a generation seeking to establish itself among the game’s leading emerging players.