Mustapha Hadji hits out at Ballon d'Or snub for Achraf Hakimi

Hadji's anger stems from Hakimi's outstanding performances during the 2024/25 season.

"The only African player to have won the Ballon d'Or is George Weah. I always ask myself questions about discrimination against African players and African football, and frankly, this goes beyond my understanding," Hadji told Afrik-Foot.

"Seeing Hakimi in sixth place in this ranking is a scandal. Ousmane Dembele deserves to win the Ballon d'Or, that is clear, but Hakimi in sixth place? This is unacceptable.

The former Morocco international stressed that his stance is not driven by patriotism.

"I am not speaking as a Moroccan, and not because Hakimi is my compatriot I defend him, but as a former player and a lover of football who follows every match. Frankly, I think the people who vote do not watch the same football we are watching," he said.

Hadji highlighted Hakimi's exceptional contributions in Europe's top competition as evidence of his worthiness.

"Achraf scored in the quarter-final, semi-final, and final of the Champions League. He even created a new position - no longer a full-back nor a winger, but an attacking role of his own. He was consistent all season. What more could he do? This is something incomprehensible!"

For Hadji, Hakimi's sixth-place finish is more than a ranking; it is symbolic of a broader issue in football. He believes African players continue to be overlooked despite world-class performances, sparking renewed debate about representation in football's most prestigious individual award.

Hakimi's achievements, according to Hadji, warrant greater recognition, and the Moroccan icon has called on voters to consider performances on the pitch rather than reputation or nationality when awarding the Ballon d'Or.