Achraf Hakimi says his achievements over the past year merit serious consideration for the Ballon d’Or, after the Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco star was named among the 30 nominees for the prestigious award.
The 25-year-old right-back played a pivotal role in PSG’s treble-winning campaign last season, lifting the Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, and the UEFA Champions League.
Known for his lightning pace and relentless work rate, Hakimi not only contributed defensively but also made a significant impact in attack, scoring key goals and delivering decisive performances in major fixtures.
Reflecting on his nomination, Hakimi told Canal+ that simply being part of the conversation for football’s top individual honour was already remarkable.
When I’m involved in the Ballon d’Or debate, it’s a dream I could never have imagined. If I have the chance to win it, I think I deserve it after the historic season I’ve had, he said.
While traditionally the award has been dominated by forwards and attacking midfielders, Hakimi believes his contributions as a defender set him apart.
I’m often mistaken for a striker or a midfielder, but no, I play in a four-man defense and my role is to defend. My statistics this year are not those of a classic defender. I think that when a defender achieves that, he deserves it even more than a striker.
Hakimi’s argument taps into a longstanding debate about the Ballon d’Or’s tendency to overlook defensive players.
Since Italian legend Fabio Cannavaro’s win in 2006, no defender has claimed the trophy, with voting patterns heavily favouring attacking players.
However, Hakimi’s exceptional mix of defensive stability and attacking output has fuelled discussions about whether he could break that trend.
The Moroccan international’s case is further strengthened by his performances on the international stage, where he continues to be a cornerstone of the Atlas Lions’ setup.
His consistency for both club and country over the past season has enhanced his reputation as one of the world’s best full-backs.
While Hakimi faces fierce competition from global superstars across all positions, his inclusion among the final 30 underlines the growing recognition of his influence on the game.
For him, the nomination is not just a personal milestone but also a statement on the value of defenders in football’s highest honours.
I’ve had a season I will always remember, Hakimi said. And if people believe defenders can’t win it, maybe it’s time to change that view.
