Achraf Hakimi Has Been Named The Best African Player Of The Year

Achraf Hakimi won the 2025 Africa Player of the Year award (Instagram/@achrafhakiki).

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defender Achraf Hakimi was named Africa's 2025 Player of the Year at a ceremony in Rabat on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, local time.

The Moroccoan top of the voting list, followed by Liverpool and Egypt superstars Mohamed Salah, and Nigerian and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen.

"It was a very proud moment for me to win this prestigious award. This trophy is not only for me, but for all tough men and women who dream of becoming footballers in Africa."

"Of course (this award), for those who have always believed in me since childhood, that I will become a professional footballer one day. I want to thank them all," said Hakimi as quoted by ESPN.

Hakimi had a brilliant season, winning five trophies with PSG, including the club's inaugural Champions League title.

The PSG full-back played an important role in the final, opening the scoring in an unforgettable 5-0 landslide victory over Inter Milan in May 2025.

FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, and CAF president Patrice Motsepe gave the award to Hakimi.

The last time a defender has won the award was centre-back Zaire (now Democratic Republic of the Congo), Bwanga Tshimen, who won it in 1973.

Midfielder Ghizlane Chebbak became the first Moroccan woman to win this year's Africa Player of the Year award.

He won the highest award, outperforming his compatriots in the national team, Sanaa Mssoudy, and Rasheedat Ajibba from Nigeria.

Bubista has been named the Best Coach of the Year after leading the country of Tanjung Verde undergoing an amazing qualification to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, while ensuring their first appearance at the world's most popular football tournament.