Achraf Hakimi crowned at home as FIFA President presents 'The Best' award in Morocco

Achraf Hakimi's stellar year reached a fitting climax on Friday night as FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally presented the Moroccan star with The Best award at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.

The ceremony, held in the presence of Morocco’s national team players, was a symbolic homecoming for Hakimi, whose performances in 2025 cemented his status as one of world football’s elite full-backs.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender had earlier been named in FIFA’s Best Men’s XI for the 2024/25 season during The Best awards ceremony in Doha, underlining a campaign defined by consistency, influence and silverware at both club and international level.

Hakimi’s selection crowned a dominant year in which he remained a key figure for PSG, combining defensive solidity with his trademark attacking thrust down the right flank.

His leadership role with the Atlas Lions also continued to grow, reinforcing his standing as one of Africa’s foremost football exports.

The FIFA Best XI for 2025 reflects PSG’s strong presence, with Gianluigi Donnarumma named in goal, while Hakimi, William Pacho, Virgil van Dijk and Nuno Mendes form a formidable back line.

The midfield features a blend of creativity and control in Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Vitinha and Pedri, while the attacking duo of Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembele completes the lineup.

Infantino’s decision to hand the award to Hakimi in Morocco added extra significance, celebrating not only individual excellence but also the country’s growing influence on the global football stage.

The honour represents more than personal success for Hakimi it is a testament to Morocco’s rise in world football and a moment of pride shared with teammates, fans and the wider African continent.