Every year the race for the African Ballon d’Or sparks heated debates among Football fans. If Achraf Hakimi shines brightly on European and international fields, his position as defender seems to slow down his chances of winning the prestigious award. But why is this disadvantage linked to its position so marked?
A less glamorous but essential position
Football often celebrates scorers, those artists capable of changing the course of a match with a decisive gesture. Forwards and attacking midfielders monopolize the spotlight, sometimes overshadowing the vital role of defenders and full-backs. However, Achraf Hakimi, right back of Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco, is a complete player and can also be decisive by scoring the right goal, like against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League or against Nantes in Ligue 1. Quick , technical and decisive, he excels in both defense and attack, but his influence is often perceived as less spectacular!
Less impressive statistics?
Unlike attackers, defenders/fullbacks like Hakimi rarely rack up impressive stats in terms of goals or assists. Although his contribution is fundamental in the construction of the game and defensive balance, these aspects remain difficult to quantify. However, voters often favor notable figures, rather than in-depth analysis of a player’s role.
Yet an exceptional journey
Despite these obstacles, Hakimi made his mark at the 2022 World Cup, leading Morocco to a historic semi-final. His performances have also been exemplary at club level, where he has established himself as one of the best full-backs in the world. However, in the collective imagination, a defender is rarely associated with the brilliance of a prestigious individual trophy.
A necessary change of mentality
For a player like Hakimi to hope to win an African Ballon d’Or, there would need to be a real change in the perception of the value of defenders. Recognizing their invisible but crucial impact is a key step in rebalancing votes and doing justice to such talented and indispensable players.
In the meantime, Achraf Hakimi continues to push the limits of his position, proving that even a defender can be a star. Perhaps one day, his efforts will finally be rewarded with recognition commensurate with his talent.
Photo : PSG
