Achraf Hakimi Named African Player of the Year After Stellar PSG Season

Achraf Hakimi crowned African Player of the Year following PSG heroics

Achraf Hakimi, the Moroccan right-back, has officially been named African Player of the Year after an exceptional season with Paris Saint-Germain. Announced at the CAF Awards 2025 in Rabat, Hakimi’s achievement caps a campaign filled with silverware and individual brilliance, outshining fellow nominees Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen for the continent’s highest footballing honor.

Hakimi’s Historic Achievement for Moroccan Football

The significance of Achraf Hakimi’s triumph as African Player of the Year cannot be overstated. He is now the fifth Moroccan footballer to claim the prestigious award, following in the footsteps of the nation’s greats and igniting nationwide pride. The ceremony, held at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Rabat, saw Hakimi honored not just for his club success but also for his growing leadership and inspiration to aspiring African footballers.

Despite nursing a severe ankle sprain suffered during the Champions League, Hakimi arrived at the gala on a scooter, determined to witness the historic moment firsthand. On stage, he expressed his gratitude, dedicating the trophy to all dreamers across Africa: “This trophy is not just for me, it’s for all the strong men and women with dreams in Africa and those who aspire to become footballers.”

Kylian Mbappe’s Heartfelt Tribute to the African King

Hakimi’s former PSG teammate and close friend Kylian Mbappe was quick to share his admiration. Now a Real Madrid star, Mbappe took to Instagram to post a photo of Hakimi holding the golden ball, captioned: “I love you, my brother. King of Africa. Well done, it is a more than deserved award,” complete with Moroccan flag emojis. Their camaraderie, forged during their three seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, remains one of the strongest bonds in football—even after Hakimi surpassed Mbappe in the recent Ballon d’Or rankings.

Mbappe’s message showcased the mutual respect and friendship between two of football’s biggest names, highlighting the personal connections that transcend club allegiances. Such gestures set a positive example in the world of elite sport, where competition and mutual admiration can coexist.

Hakimi’s PSG Success and Lasting Moroccan Legacy

Integral to PSG’s triumphant 2024-25 campaign, Hakimi added the Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Super Cup to his trophy haul. His electric pace, defensive awareness, and attacking prowess have made him one of Europe’s most complete full-backs. More importantly, his leadership qualities—honed under pressure for both club and country—have matured, solidifying his status as an icon.

Internationally, Achraf Hakimi’s contributions to Moroccan football are legendary. He played a leading role in Morocco’s historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, establishing the Atlas Lions as the first African team to reach that stage. Coach Walid Regragui has continued to place immense trust in Hakimi, who remains vital to Morocco’s ambitions on the continental and global stage.

Overcoming Injury and Eyeing AFCON Glory

Hakimi’s journey this season has been marked by resilience. Despite his ankle injury, he is focused on recovery with hopes of returning in time for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Morocco will host from December 21. The nation has not lifted the AFCON trophy since 1976, and Hakimi’s return could be decisive in their long-awaited quest for continental supremacy.

Mbappe’s Leadership: Respect Beyond Rivalry

While Hakimi dreams of AFCON glory, Kylian Mbappe continues his impressive run at Real Madrid. His public endorsement of Hakimi not only celebrates his friend’s success but also exemplifies the leadership and sportsmanship that elite football desperately needs. As Real Madrid faces a demanding schedule in La Liga, the Champions League, and the Club World Cup, Mbappe’s influence stretches beyond the pitch, shaping the new generation’s view of friendship and respect in football.

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Opinion: Hakimi Sets a New Standard

Achraf Hakimi’s recognition as African Player of the Year is not just a personal triumph, but a milestone for Moroccan football and the continent as a whole. His dedication, resilience, and humility—especially in overcoming recent injury setbacks—offer inspiration to a new generation. The support from Kylian Mbappe shines a positive light on football’s power to unite, showing that respect and friendship can flourish even at the sport’s highest level. As AFCON approaches, all eyes will be on Hakimi to see if he can lead Morocco to yet another historic achievement.