Achraf Hakimi’s Ballon d’Or prospects divide opinion among former internationals

The football world awaits the announcement of the 2025 Ballon d’Or this Monday, and Paris Saint-Germain’s Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi is firmly in the conversation.

With his outstanding season placing him among the leading contenders, Afrik-Foot gathered the views of several former internationals, offering a snapshot of how the Atlas Lion’s chances are being judged.

Achille Emana: “Lamine Yamal edges it, but Hakimi deserves recognition”

Former Cameroon international Achille Emana, now a consultant, believes that while Hakimi has the pedigree to compete for the award, Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal remains his first choice.

“My first choice would be Lamine Yamal,” Emana said. “Technically, he is something special. Hakimi, though, has shown over the past two years that he fully deserves to be in the running.

He’s not just a candidate for the African Ballon d’Or but also for the France Football Ballon d’Or. Personally, I’d put Yamal slightly ahead—he has the talent, the courage, and has already captured the hearts of fans. But Hakimi, too, is one of my clear favourites.”

Emana also highlighted the shared African heritage of both players: “Lamine is Spanish but also Moroccan, just like Hakimi. If either of them wins, I’ll be happy. They represent clubs I admire—Barça and PSG.”

Adil Hermach: “Hakimi has redefined the role of a full-back”

Former Morocco international Adil Hermach, who managed French side Nîmes last season, sees Hakimi as the standout candidate.

“For me, Hakimi is the favourite,” Hermach asserted. “A full-back performing at this level is almost unheard of. His consistency, his influence for both PSG and the Moroccan national team, is remarkable.

If PSG lifted their first Champions League title, it’s because of decisive players like him. He’s reinvented the position, and I wouldn’t have liked to be in the opposing side facing him today.”

Boukary Dramé: “Competing against Dembélé will be tough”

Senegalese former international Boukary Dramé, who came through the ranks at PSG, acknowledged Hakimi’s African dominance but felt the global Ballon d’Or might be a step too far.

“For the African Ballon d’Or, Hakimi is an obvious choice,” Dramé explained. “But when it comes to the France Football Ballon d’Or, the competition is fierce.

Players like Ousmane Dembélé are ahead of him offensively. Still, Hakimi has his chance—things can change quickly in football.”

Olivier Dacourt: “Hakimi won’t be far from glory”

Ex-France international Olivier Dacourt, now a consultant and filmmaker, is convinced Hakimi’s year has been extraordinary enough to ensure recognition on both fronts.

“Hakimi has won everything with PSG,” Dacourt said. “He even scored in the Champions League final, showing his ability to decide the biggest games. For the African Ballon d’Or, there’s no contest—he is way ahead.

At European level, he’ll also be close. The last African who won everything was Samuel Eto’o in 2010, and Hakimi’s season draws parallels with that.”