Hakimi should win Ballon d'Or ahead of Dembele and Yamal - Chamakh

Former Arsenal and Morocco striker Marouane Chamakh has sparked a fervent debate in the football world, making a bold declaration that Achraf Hakimi, the dynamic Paris Saint-Germain right-back, deserves the prestigious Ballon d'Or ahead of his club teammate Ousmane Dembele and Barcelona's rising star Lamine Yamal. Chamakh's assertion challenges conventional wisdom, which often biases the coveted individual award towards attacking players, especially forwards and creative midfielders.

Chamakh's argument, though not fully detailed by the ex-striker, likely stems from Hakimi's unique and multifaceted contributions that transcend the traditional role of a full-back. In an era where defensive players are rarely considered for football's highest individual honour, Hakimi stands out as a genuine game-changer. His blistering pace, incisive overlapping runs, and pinpoint crossing make him a potent attacking threat, often acting as an auxiliary winger for PSG. Yet, crucially, he maintains his defensive responsibilities, showcasing a rare blend of offensive prowess and defensive diligence. This dual threat capability makes him indispensable to his team's tactical setup, providing width, penetration, and a robust presence on the right flank.

Throughout recent seasons, Hakimi has consistently delivered performances of the highest calibre for both club and country. His integral role in PSG's domestic dominance is undeniable, with his link-up play with star forwards often unlocking stubborn defences. Furthermore, his influence on the international stage with the Moroccan national team has been equally profound, highlighted by their historic run in major tournaments where his leadership and unwavering energy were pivotal. While Dembele is undoubtedly a player of immense talent, possessing electrifying dribbling skills and an unpredictable nature, his career has, at times, been punctuated by injuries and periods of inconsistency that have prevented him from reaching his absolute peak consistently. Yamal, on the other hand, represents the future, a prodigious talent whose emergence has captivated audiences, but at his young age, he is still very much in the developmental phase of his career, and perhaps not yet at the level of consistent, world-altering impact required for a Ballon d'Or.

The Ballon d'Or traditionally rewards players who have had an exceptional calendar year, often marked by significant trophy wins and standout individual statistics in goals and assists. For a full-back to be considered, their impact must be truly extraordinary, akin to how defenders like Paolo Maldini or Roberto Carlos were revered for their unique abilities. Chamakh's endorsement of Hakimi suggests he sees this level of extraordinary influence in the Moroccan international. It's a testament to Hakimi's evolution into one of the most complete and influential wide players in modern football, consistently delivering high-impact performances that contribute to both offensive creativity and defensive stability.

While the prospect of a defender winning the Ballon d'Or remains a formidable challenge given the award's historical leanings, Chamakh's intervention serves as a powerful reminder of Hakimi's undeniable quality and his pivotal role in top-tier football. It ignites a fascinating debate about what truly constitutes "the best player in the world" and whether the definition should expand to fully embrace players who redefine their positions with unparalleled versatility and consistent excellence. Whether Hakimi ultimately lifts the golden ball or not, Chamakh's endorsement firmly places him in the conversation among the elite talents in the global game.