Achraf Hakimi described as Ballon d’Or worthy by RMC Sport pundits

Paris Saint-Germain right back Achraf Hakimi is being touted as a serious Ballon d’Or contender by RMC Sport analysts, who praise the Moroccan international’s standout performances throughout the season.

Speaking on the After-Foot programme, football consultant Kevin Diaz made a compelling case for Hakimi’s inclusion among the world’s elite.

“If I had to choose a number one today, it would be Achraf Hakimi,” Diaz stated. “His consistency, his impact, his work with the national team — he’s at the top in every category.”

At 26, Hakimi has registered 10 goals and 14 assists this season, numbers that rival those of attacking players despite his position in defence.

His high output, combined with his positional flexibility and tactical intelligence, has led some to claim he is redefining the modern full back role.

Diaz emphasised Hakimi’s unique style of play, arguing that the Moroccan star is more than just a defender. “He plays like a striker in many phases of the game,” he observed.

“We’re witnessing a player who is pushing the boundaries of his position. He has the numbers of a centre forward but the responsibilities of a defender.”

The programme highlighted Hakimi’s extraordinary physical and technical profile. His ability to contribute across various roles, whether as a winger, central midfielder or even forward, was cited as one of his defining traits.

Analysts pointed to his relentless energy and tactical versatility, calling him one of the most complete footballers on the global stage.

Beyond his domestic success at PSG, Hakimi has also made a major impact in international and European competitions this season.

He played decisive roles in high-stakes matches, scoring crucial goals in PSG’s Champions League knockout rounds against Aston Villa in the quarter-final, Arsenal in the semi-final and Inter Milan in the final. He also impressed during the Club World Cup held in the United States.

The Moroccan captain, who has earned 85 international caps and scored 11 goals for his country, continues to be a key figure for the Atlas Lions.

His contributions extend well beyond the stat sheet. Leadership, stamina and a calm presence under pressure have become trademarks of his game.

“He’s not just an exceptional footballer — he’s someone fans gravitate toward,” Diaz added. “Always smiling, always respectful, always giving one hundred percent.

He’s changing how we look at right backs.”

While the Ballon d’Or has historically favoured attacking players and rarely recognises defenders, Diaz believes Hakimi’s performances deserve genuine consideration.

He noted that Fabio Cannavaro’s win in 2006 remains one of the few examples of a defender claiming the top individual honour, but argued that Hakimi belongs in that rare company.

Since joining PSG from Inter Milan in 2021, Hakimi has proven himself indispensable to Luis Enrique’s squad.

Blending defensive responsibility with attacking instinct, he has emerged as one of the most dynamic and influential players in the modern game.

Whether or not Hakimi receives the Ballon d’Or, the growing recognition from respected figures in football media reflects the scale of his achievements this season.