Image source: FB/Ballon d’Or
The Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony in Paris crowned Ousmane Dembélé as the world’s best footballer. Yet in Morocco, the spotlight was firmly on Achraf Hakimi. The Atlas Lions star finished 6th in the world rankings, the highest Ballon d’Or position ever achieved by a Moroccan player.
It was a historic moment for Moroccan football, but for many fans it felt bittersweet. Across Morocco, supporters believed Hakimi’s exceptional season deserved an even higher finish, perhaps even the trophy itself.
A Historic But Bittersweet Recognition
Hakimi’s 6th place represents the best Ballon d’Or ranking ever achieved by a Moroccan footballer. His season with Paris Saint-Germain was outstanding, combining explosive attacking runs, defensive discipline, and decisive performances in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League.
Beyond club football, Hakimi continues to be a pillar of the Moroccan national team. His leadership and consistency have helped solidify Morocco’s reputation as one of the rising powers in global football.
The Podium vs. Morocco’s Hero
The final Ballon d’Or 2025 podium looked like this:
- Ousmane Dembélé (France / Barcelona)
- Lamine Yamal (Spain / Barcelona)
- Vitinha (Portugal / PSG)
Hakimi’s position ahead of global superstars like Kylian Mbappé highlights the international respect he commands. Still, debates quickly erupted across Moroccan media and social networks.
Many fans questioned why defenders rarely receive the same recognition as attacking players, despite their crucial influence on modern football. For many supporters, Hakimi’s consistency and influence on both ends of the pitch deserved a place on the podium.
National Pride Despite Disappointment
Despite the frustration felt by some supporters, Hakimi’s presence in the Ballon d’Or top 10 is a major source of pride for Morocco. It reflects the country’s growing influence in international football.
From Morocco’s historic semi-final run at the 2022 World Cup to the upcoming AFCON 2025 tournament hosted in Morocco, the nation has established itself as one of the most exciting football stories of the decade.
The country is also preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, an event expected to further transform Moroccan football infrastructure and global visibility.
A Role Model for a New Generation
For young Moroccan footballers, Achraf Hakimi represents more than sporting success. His journey from youth academies in Spain to becoming one of the world’s best right-backs shows what determination and discipline can achieve.
Many fans summed up the national sentiment perfectly on social media: “For Morocco, Hakimi is already our Ballon d’Or winner.”
What This Means for Morocco’s Football Future
Hakimi’s achievement reflects a broader transformation within Moroccan football. With world-class stadiums under construction, major international tournaments approaching, and a new generation of players shining in Europe, the country is entering a golden era.
While some may see the Ballon d’Or result as a missed opportunity, others view it as the beginning of greater recognition for Moroccan talent on the world stage. With AFCON 2025 and the 2030 World Cup on the horizon, Hakimi and his teammates could soon push Morocco even higher in global football rankings.
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