International
The Truth About Hakimi’s Ballon d’Or Snub—And Why It Matters
In a season defined by excellence and understated brilliance, Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi has elevated his status to one of football’s most complete and influential players. Whether orchestrating attacks from deep, delivering match-winning assists, or locking down world-class attackers, Hakimi’s 2024–2025 campaign has been a masterclass in tactical intelligence, physical dynamism, and leadership.
Yet despite his critical contributions across club and international football, Hakimi’s name remains largely absent from the Ballon d’Or conversation—underscoring longstanding biases in how global football rewards excellence.
“He doesn’t just play his position—he changes the way the entire team operates.”
— Luis Enrique, Former PSG Coach
A Season of Achievements That Define Greatness
Hakimi’s season was nothing short of historic, marked by elite performances and record-breaking accolades:
- 🏆 Champions League winner with PSG
- 🇫🇷 Ligue 1 & Coupe de France titles
- ⚽ 9 goals & 14 assists as a right-back
- 🔥 Scored in the UEFA Champions League final
- 🌍 World Cup semifinalist with Morocco
- 🥉 Olympic bronze medalist
- 👑 Best African Player in Ligue 1
He contributed to 20+ goals across all competitions for Paris Saint-Germain—not just through assists and goals, but through pressing, ball recovery, and match control. His partnership with Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé turned PSG’s right flank into a relentless attacking force feared across Europe.
In the Champions League, Hakimi delivered standout performances against top-tier opposition including Bayern Munich and Manchester City, combining his signature overlapping runs with rock-solid defensive displays. In the final, he scored a pivotal goal—cementing his influence in the club’s first-ever Champions League triumph.
Elevating Others: The Hidden Value of Hakimi
Hakimi’s greatness is most evident in how he amplifies those around him.
- He revitalized Romelu Lukaku’s form at Inter Milan.
- He offered consistent tactical support to Hakim Ziyech with the Moroccan national team.
- He helped Dembélé rediscover his rhythm at PSG after years of inconsistency at Barcelona.
“He brings freedom to attackers because they know he’ll always be there behind them.”
— Thierry Marchal, Football Analyst
The Case for the Ballon d’Or
Football awards often prioritize highlight reels and goal counts—but Hakimi’s game has always been about substance over flash.
- Consistency: Week after week, Hakimi delivered at the highest level in France, Europe, and Africa.
- Impact: He dictates tempo from defense, covers vast ground, and initiates attacks with vision and precision.
- Leadership: As a senior figure for Morocco, he has become a symbol of African football’s global ascent.
“People always talk about strikers for the Ballon d’Or, but if you’ve watched this season closely, Hakimi has been on another level. He deserves to be on that podium—no question.”
— Kylian Mbappé, PSG & France forward
Why He Might Be Overlooked
Despite his undeniable influence, systemic factors may keep Hakimi from lifting the Ballon d’Or:
- Positional Bias
Defenders—and especially full-backs—are rarely honored. The last defender to win the Ballon d’Or was Fabio Cannavaro in 2006. No full-back has ever claimed the award. - Media Spotlight
Voting tends to favor forwards like Mbappé, Haaland, or Vinícius Jr., whose goal stats and highlight reels dominate headlines. - Continental Bias
African players, regardless of performance, often face diminished recognition. Legends like Samuel Eto’o and Didier Drogba were frequently overlooked despite exceptional seasons. - Team Spotlight
Although PSG claimed the treble, the club’s recent history and media narratives may have diverted attention from Hakimi’s central role.
Conclusion: A Modern Legend, Deserving of More
Achraf Hakimi’s 2024–2025 season was more than just successful—it was transformative. He broke positional stereotypes, led by example, and delivered when it mattered most. His candidacy for the Ballon d’Or represents more than a personal milestone; it challenges football to broaden its definition of greatness.
“Until the system rewards balance over branding, players like Hakimi will always be overlooked.”
— Diego Fernandez, Football Ethics Scholar
Whether or not he lifts the trophy, one thing is certain: Hakimi belongs in the Ballon d’Or conversation—and perhaps, in a more inclusive future, in the winner’s circle.