Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has arrived in Marrakech with his family as anticipation builds ahead of the 2024 African Ballon d’Or ceremony.
The Moroccan international is among the top contenders for this year’s award, which will be presented by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on December 16 in his home country.
Hakimi, who has enjoyed an outstanding season with PSG, is widely seen as one of the favorites for the prestigious accolade.
The 25-year-old has been pivotal to PSG’s successes in Ligue 1 and European competitions, solidifying his reputation as one of the best right-backs in the world.
His stellar performances have earned him a spot among the five finalists for the African Player of the Year award.
Joining Hakimi on the shortlist are Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, who impressed with Atalanta in Serie A, and Guinean striker Serhou Guirassy, whose exploits in the Bundesliga with VfB Stuttgart led to a move to Borussia Dortmund.
Lookman’s pace and skill made him a standout in Italy, while Guirassy’s remarkable goal-scoring form made waves in Germany’s top flight.
Hakimi’s arrival in Marrakech is being closely followed by fans and media alike, with many considering this moment a potential crowning achievement in his career.
Known for his versatility and attacking flair, Hakimi has consistently delivered top-tier performances, both for his club and the Moroccan national team.
The African Ballon d’Or is one of the highest individual honors in African football, celebrating the continent’s best player over the past year.
This year’s ceremony holds special significance, as it is being hosted in Morocco—a country that has been at the forefront of African football in recent years, notably reaching the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
As the ceremony approaches, excitement is mounting not only for Hakimi but also for the other nominees, who have each made significant contributions to their clubs and countries.
The event is expected to draw football stars, dignitaries, and fans from across the continent, making it a showcase of African talent on the global stage.
Whether Hakimi will claim the coveted award remains to be seen, but his journey to this point has already cemented his status as one of Africa’s finest footballers.
Le 𝗠𝗘𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗨𝗥 𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗗𝗨 𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗗𝗘 vient d’arriver à la cérémonie du Ballon d’Or Africain à Marrakech🇲🇦⭐️ pic.twitter.com/sEwlcxzrpd
— 𝑨𝒄𝒕𝒖 𝑯𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒎𝒊 (@ActuHakimi) December 16, 2024
