### Hakimi: A Leader in the Making<\/p>\n
Achraf Hakimi’s journey in football has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since joining Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in July 2021, the Moroccan international has solidified his reputation as one of the world’s elite right-backs. His contributions to the team have been invaluable, and as Luis Enrique aptly noted, his status as the second captain underscores his leadership within the squad. With 88 international caps and 11 goals for Morocco, Hakimi is a player who continually transcends expectations.<\/p>\n
### A Hybrid and Ultra-Decisive Full-Back<\/p>\n
Hakimi is not your typical defender. His ability to adapt and innovate redefines the role of a right-back. He often plays as more than just a defensive stalwart; he is a creator and a scorer. Enrique’s tactics have allowed Hakimi to flourish, enabling him to explore various roles on the pitch. According to teammate Lucas Chevalier, “He\u2019s a modern player,” reflecting the dynamic skill set that Hakimi possesses.<\/p>\n
As a player who constantly breaks patterns and encourages a fresh perspective on attacking football, he transforms the right flank into an engaging stage. Despite recent injuries, his influence on both the offense and defense remains strikingly evident.<\/p>\n
### The Numbers Don’t Lie<\/p>\n
Hakimi\u2019s stats speak volumes about his impact on the game. In the historic 2024-2025 season, he recorded 11 goals and 16 assists across 55 matches. His versatility makes him suitable for various positions, allowing him to adapt seamlessly to Enrique’s tactical system. Remarkably, he leads offensive statistics among defenders with 6568 touches, outperforming well-known names like Virgil van Dijk and Josko Gvardiol.<\/p>\n
He also tops the assists ranking among defenders, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly to his team\u2019s success. Hakimi’s performance resulted in him being awarded the prestigious Marc-Vivien Fo\u00e9 Prize as the best African player in Ligue 1, further emphasizing his central role in PSG\u2019s ambitions.<\/p>\n
### The African Ballon d’Or on the Horizon?<\/p>\n
Having finished sixth in the last Ballon d’Or voting, many view this ranking as an injustice for the Moroccan star. Currently among the top contenders for the 2025 African Ballon d’Or, Hakimi has expressed that winning it would be a dream come true. “I have worked a lot to be able to win titles, collective and individual,” he stated, demonstrating his desire not just for personal accolades but also for team success.<\/p>\n
As he stands side by side with other African greats, Hakimi\u2019s achievements and form place him as a likely favorite. The CAF Awards in Rabat are set for November 19, and anticipation builds around whether Hakimi will claim this coveted honor, marking a new pinnacle in his illustrious career.<\/p>\n
### Conclusion<\/p>\n
Achraf Hakimi’s trajectory in the world of football is a compelling narrative of hard work, talent, and ambition. A standout performer for PSG, he embodies the modern full-back, masterfully blending defensive duties with significant offensive contributions. With the African Ballon d’Or within reach, Hakimi’s bright future is undeniably set against the backdrop of his exceptional skills and on-field leadership.<\/p>\n