Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi earned the African Footballer of the Year honor, breaking a 52-year streak for a defender last achieved by Bwanga Tshimen. The Paris Saint-Germain right-back secured the award ahead of competitors Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen. His victory recognized a standout season where he contributed to his club winning the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Super Cup.
Hakimi expressed his profound gratitude during the ceremony in Marrakech, dedicating the accolade to aspiring African footballers and those who supported his career from its beginning. His performances for both club and country during the year, which included 11 goals and 12 assists, were widely praised.
Morocco’s football prowess was further highlighted as Ghizlane Chebbak was named Women’s Footballer of the Year and Yassine Bounou won Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year. The nation also received the Men’s National Team of the Year award, confirming its elevated status in the sport.
Hakimi expressed his profound gratitude during the ceremony in Marrakech, dedicating the accolade to aspiring African footballers and those who supported his career from its beginning. His performances for both club and country during the year, which included 11 goals and 12 assists, were widely praised.
Morocco’s football prowess was further highlighted as Ghizlane Chebbak was named Women’s Footballer of the Year and Yassine Bounou won Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year. The nation also received the Men’s National Team of the Year award, confirming its elevated status in the sport.
