Algerian international Jaouen Hadjam has been shortlisted for the 2025 Best Defender award by the Swiss Professional Football Players League, following a standout debut season with Swiss giants BSC Young Boys.
The 21-year-old left-back, who transferred from French side FC Nantes in January 2024, has swiftly become an indispensable part of the Young Boys’ backline.
His nomination places him among eight top-performing defenders in the Swiss Super League, highlighting his influence in a campaign marked by consistency and resilience.
Hadjam’s transition to Swiss football was seamless. Since his arrival in Bern, he has racked up 42 appearances across all competitions, amassing 2,925 minutes on the pitch.
Renowned for his tactical intelligence and defensive awareness, he has also demonstrated his value going forward, registering one goal and providing two assists.
His performances have not only contributed to Young Boys’ domestic ambitions but have also elevated his profile on the continental stage.
Known for his ability to read the game and deliver under pressure, Hadjam has proven a reliable figure in crucial moments throughout the season.
His nomination is a testament to the impact he has made in such a short time since crossing over from Ligue 1.
Currently under contract with Young Boys until 2028, Hadjam’s rapid rise in Swiss football has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike.
The upcoming awards ceremony on May 5 will determine whether his efforts will be formally recognised with one of the league’s highest individual accolades.
For Algeria, Hadjam’s development in Switzerland offers another boost to its growing pool of European-based talent. His performances during the national team’s March training camp further reinforced his potential as a future mainstay for the Fennecs.
A win at the Swiss league ceremony could serve as another step forward in cementing his international reputation.
The Best Defender award, voted on by players and experts within the Swiss football community, reflects not just statistical contributions but also consistency, sportsmanship, and impact on team performance.
In Hadjam’s case, all signs point to a player who has adapted quickly to a new environment while maintaining high standards both defensively and offensively.
While competition for the title remains fierce, Hadjam’s inclusion among the finalists signifies a successful personal campaign and underscores his growing reputation as one of the most promising young defenders in European football.
The May ceremony will reveal whether his name will be etched alongside previous winners of this prestigious accolade.
Regardless of the outcome, Jaouen Hadjam’s first season in Switzerland has laid a strong foundation for the years ahead, promising both club and country a player of exceptional calibre and character.
