Achraf Hakimi, defender for Paris Saint-Germain, finished sixth in the Ballon d’Or 2025 ranking, a result that has sparked strong controversy in Morocco.
Despite an exceptional season with 11 goals and 16 assists in 55 matches, the 26-year-old Moroccan full-back regrets not being better rewarded, especially compared to the forwards who traditionally dominate this trophy. His placement behind Mohamed Salah and Raphinha is seen as an affront, notably by Moroccan media and fans.
Speaking to Canal+, Hakimi expressed belief in his chances despite his defensive position, describing his season as “historic,” highlighted by decisive goals in the final phases. However, some media have suggested a possible PSG strategy to promote Ousmane Dembélé, the Ballon d’Or winner, at Hakimi’s expense. According to L’Équipe, Hakimi’s comments may have worsened his relations within the club, influencing a final ranking hierarchy clearly favorable to PSG’s offensive players.
Moroccan press sharply denounces this as a « golden injustice. » L’Opinion criticizes a biased view of world football that ignores Hakimi’s merits, emphasizing his endurance, consistency, and statistics. Al-Mountakhab argues that this ranking reflects an urgent need to reform the Ballon d’Or criteria, often reserved for attackers, and laments that Africa has had no winner since George Weah in 1995. Moroccan fans respond with disappointment, believing their captain deserved at least a podium spot.
Nonetheless, Hakimi publicly congratulated Dembélé, showing sportsmanship despite the circumstances. His ranking remains historic as he becomes the highest-ranked African defender of all time at the Ballon d’Or, symbolizing the rise of African players in world elite football. Still, Moroccan disappointment and debates about the trophy’s criteria continue, intensified by the upcoming African Ballon d’Or where Hakimi might be outpaced by Salah, deepening the controversy.