Moroccan international and Paris Saint-Germain star defender, Achraf Hakimi, believes he has done enough to claim the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
The right-back played a pivotal role in PSG’s historic treble-winning campaign, lifting the Ligue 1 title, French Cup, and UEFA Champions League.
He also helped the French giants reach the revamped FIFA Club World Cup final, where they fell 3-0 to Chelsea.
Renowned for his attacking contributions despite his defensive role, Hakimi finished the season with an impressive 25 goal involvements in 55 appearances.
In the Champions League alone, the 2024 Paris Olympic bronze medalist stood out — winning 87 duels and creating 36 chances in 17 matches, just two fewer than teammate Ousmane Dembele.
Speaking in an interview with Canal+, Hakimi declared, “I think I deserve it. As a defender, it’s more difficult. People think I’m an attacking midfielder, but no, I play as a full-back and I have to think about defending too.”
Hakimi’s influence extended to the Club World Cup, where he ranked among PSG’s best in assists, goals, and chance creation.
His stellar season earned him a spot among nine PSG players nominated for the 30-man 2025 Ballon d’Or shortlist, alongside coach Luis Enrique.
Other PSG nominees include Ousmane Dembele, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Desire Doue, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves, Fabian Ruiz, and Vitinha.
The list also features Barcelona’s Raphinha (34 goals, 25 assists), Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (34 goals, 23 assists and Premier League Player of the Season), and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland (34 goals, 5 assists).
Former Manchester United midfielder, Scott McTominay, crowned Serie A’s Most Valuable Player after guiding Napoli to the title, made history as the first Scotsman in 38 years to earn a nomination.
Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal (18 goals, 25 assists) was also included and is in contention for the Kopa Trophy for best U-21 player, an award he won last year.
