Sat Jul 05 18:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Hakimi’s Club World Cup Performance Fuels Ballon d’Or Buzz
**Paris, France** – Achraf Hakimi, Paris Saint-Germain’s Moroccan right-back, is turning heads at the Club World Cup, sparking conversations about his potential Ballon d’Or candidacy. While often overshadowed by teammate Ousmane Dembélé, Hakimi’s consistent performance and impactful contributions are making him a serious contender for the prestigious award.
Hakimi’s impressive season, highlighted by his two goals in the Club World Cup, showcases his attacking prowess and composure in front of goal. In the match against Seattle, he skillfully controlled a cross from Bradley Barcola before firing a precise shot into the corner of the net, earning him the Man of the Match award. He also capitalized on a Barcola free kick against Inter Miami, demonstrating his opportunistic nature in the box.
Beyond his goals, Hakimi’s overall game has been exceptional. The 26-year-old boasts remarkable speed, stamina, and passing ability, making him a threat both offensively and defensively. He credits his exceptional fitness to his personal training regimen and the effective management of his playing time by manager Luis Enrique.
Hakimi’s understanding and execution of Luis Enrique’s tactical instructions have also been crucial to his success. He has redefined the role of a modern full-back, seamlessly transitioning into midfield to link up with attackers and switch play.
“Luis Enrique has given me a level of play I never imagined,” Hakimi stated. “I can be a complete player, that’s what he has helped me become.”
Even Luis Enrique acknowledges Hakimi’s potential, mentioning him as a Ballon d’Or contender alongside Dembélé. “I’ve never seen a better right-back than him,” the manager said, highlighting Hakimi’s immense potential for further improvement.
With 11 goals and 14 assists in 52 games this season, Hakimi’s influence on the field is undeniable. His performance at the Club World Cup is further solidifying his position as one of the best players in the world, making him a genuine contender for the Ballon d’Or. While a tough test awaits against Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Coman, where his defensive abilities will be put to the test, Hakimi has already proven his worth as a complete and dynamic player.
He recently won the Prix Marc-Vivien-Foé, awarded to the best African player in Ligue 1, and is a valued member of PSG, who extended his contract until 2029. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Hakimi to see if he can continue his impressive form and make a serious push for the coveted Ballon d’Or award.
First Piper 