Achraf Hakimi, a key figure in Moroccan Football, is one of the five finalists vying for the prestigious title of African Player of the Year, also called the African Ballon d’Or. The list of finalists, unveiled Monday by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), places the Paris Saint-Germain right-back among the contenders for the coronation during the ceremony scheduled for December 16 in Marrakech, Morocco.
The Moroccan shares this elite selection with the Guinean Serhou Guirassy, prolific striker, the Nigerian Ademola Lookman (14th in the last Ballon d’Or), the Ivorian Simon Adingra, recent African champion, and the South African Ronwen Williams, named for the Yachine Prize.
A pride for Hakimi
Questioned by the media BrutHakimi expressed his gratitude and satisfaction at being among the best:
“It is a source of pride and satisfaction, especially to know that the work I have been doing for a long time will be rewarded by this nomination. It’s true that it’s an important trophy on an individual level, but I’m happy to be here,” he said.
Ambitions displayed
Although aware of the competition, Hakimi does not hide his ambitions.
“I hope I can win it, but if not, I’m happy to be here, and it makes me want to keep working,” added the player, bronze medalist at the Olympic Games. from Paris.
A remarkable journey, but challenges
Hakimi’s journey in 2024 is impressive: a Champions League semi-final with PSG, solid performances with the national team and an Olympic medal. These achievements work in its favor.
However, his candidacy was weakened by the premature elimination of Morocco during CAN 2023, notably due to a missed penalty against South Africa in the round of 16.
Faced with formidable opponents like Guirassy, author of an exceptional season, and Lookman, in great form, Hakimi will have to rely on his collective and individual record to hope to win this prestigious title, which would be a memorable coronation on his home soil.
The editorial staff
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