CAF Awards 2025: Achraf Hakimi, Morocco crowned after 27 years | OneFootball

Achraf Hakimi, Morocco crowned after 27 years

Achraf Hakimi/@FRMF

Achraf Hakimi was named African Player of the Year 2025 during the ceremony held Wednesday night in Rabat. The Moroccan star edged out Mohamed Salah (Egypt) and Victor Osimhen (Nigeria) for the prestigious honor.

After a sensational season, the PSG full-back collected several trophies, including the Champions League, Ligue 1, the French Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup.

With this triumph, the former Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, and Inter Milan defender becomes only the second Moroccan to win the award, ending a 27-year wait for the nation.

Indeed, before him, Mustapha Hadji claimed the title back in 1998 while playing for Deportivo La Coruña—a year he dazzled at the World Cup with the Atlas Lions.

Mustapha Hadji represented Morocco 63 times (scoring 13 goals) and enjoyed a prolific career across France, Spain, England, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, and Luxembourg.

It's worth noting that Hakimi had previously been honored twice as Africa's Best Young Player in 2018 and 2019.