Achraf Hakimi’s bold Ballon d’Or claim says the quiet part out loud

Achraf Hakimi has never been short of belief in his own abilities, but his latest statement may be his most audacious yet. Speaking in a recent interview, the PSG right-back suggested he belongs among the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or the most prestigious individual award in football.

"I think I deserve to be in the conversation. What I’ve done for my club and my country proves I can be the best."
Achraf Hakimi

For a player in Hakimi’s position, even mentioning the Ballon d’Or is rare. The award, handed out annually by France Football, has long favored goal-scorers and creative midfielders. Full-backs and defenders are almost always overlooked, with Fabio Cannavaro’s 2006 win after captaining Italy to a World Cup triumph standing as the last time a defender claimed the prize.

The case for Hakimi

On paper, Hakimi’s resume is formidable. Since joining PSG from Inter Milan in 2021, the 25-year-old has become one of the most dangerous attacking full-backs in the game. His pace, overlapping runs, and precise deliveries have made him a consistent threat down the right flank, while his defensive work has steadily improved under Luis Enrique.

Internationally, Hakimi played a pivotal role in Morocco’s historic run to the 2022 World Cup semifinals the first African nation to reach that stage. That achievement alone elevated his global profile and proved he can shine under the brightest lights.

Add domestic titles in France and Italy, a growing list of assists and goals, and you begin to see why Hakimi feels his performances warrant elite recognition.

The challenge ahead

The road to a Ballon d’Or for a full-back is steep. In an era dominated by attacking superstars like Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappé Hakimi’s own teammate the competition is fierce. Even for generational defenders such as Virgil van Dijk, who finished runner-up in 2019, breaking the attacking dominance of the award has proven elusive.

Hakimi’s best shot may lie in a combination of club and international success. A deep Champions League run with PSG or another historic tournament performance with Morocco could push his name higher in voters’ minds.

Why this matters for PSG

Hakimi’s declaration isn’t just about personal ambition it’s a reflection of PSG’s internal mindset. The Parisians have long been chasing their first Champions League title, and having players willing to publicly stake such claims signals a hunger that could lift the entire squad.

Whether or not Hakimi lifts the golden ball, his confidence sets a tone. And if his performances match his words, the football world might just have to take his candidacy seriously.