Tunisia coach Sami Trabelsi backs Hakimi’s Ballon d’Or chances after third Champions League triumph

Tunisian coach Sami Trabelsi believes Achraf Hakimi has a genuine chance of winning the Ballon d’Or and says a strong World Cup campaign with Morocco could further strengthen the defender’s bid for football’s most coveted individual prize.

Speaking to beIN Sports, Trabelsi expressed his hope that Morocco can enjoy another memorable run at the FIFA World Cup, insisting that success on the global stage would significantly enhance Hakimi’s standing among the frontrunners for the award.

His endorsement comes as the Moroccan star continues to enjoy one of the finest spells of his professional career.

The discussion surrounding Hakimi’s Ballon d’Or prospects intensified following Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League success on Saturday night.

The French giants overcame Arsenal in a dramatic final that was decided by a penalty shootout, securing another European title and capping off an outstanding season for the club.

For Hakimi, the triumph marked yet another milestone in a career filled with major achievements. The Morocco international has established himself as one of the most influential figures in Luis Enrique’s team, consistently delivering strong performances at both ends of the pitch.

Throughout the campaign, Hakimi has combined defensive reliability with attacking effectiveness, further cementing his reputation as one of the world’s premier full-backs.

While the Ballon d’Or has often been dominated by attacking players, Hakimi’s impact for both club and country has prompted growing recognition of his contributions. His consistency and leadership have led many within the football community to argue that he deserves serious consideration among the game’s elite performers.

Trabelsi is the latest prominent football figure to publicly support the Moroccan captain, insisting that his performances warrant a place among the leading contenders for the prestigious award.

The upcoming World Cup could play a pivotal role in shaping the race. Morocco captured global attention in 2022 when they became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals of the tournament, with Hakimi playing a key role in that historic achievement.

Another impressive World Cup journey would once again place Morocco in the international spotlight while further enhancing Hakimi’s individual credentials.

Having already secured domestic honours and a Champions League title with PSG, the 27-year-old enters the World Cup with growing momentum behind his Ballon d’Or campaign.