Ballon d’Or 2026: Hakimi’s elite defender status stands out despite 13th-place finish

Home Home Latest News Latest News World Footaball World Footaball Ghana Players Abroad Ghana Players Abroad Ghana Premier League Ghana Premier League National Teams National Teams Videos Videos Black Stars Black Stars Transfer News & Rumours Transfer News & Rumours Kotoko Kotoko Hearts Of Oak Hearts Of Oak Ballon d’Or 2026: Hakimi’s elite defender status stands out despite 13th-place finish 26 October 2026 Share this with Email Share this with Facebook Share this with Twitter Share this with Whatsapp Achraf Hakimi’s 13th-place finish in the 2026 Ballon d’Or may represent a drop from last year, but the Paris Saint-Germain defender was still the second-highest-ranked player in his position.

Hakimi finished seventh places lower than in 2025, when he came sixth, despite helping Paris Saint-Germain win the Champions League, Ligue 1, the UEFA Super Cup and the Trophee des champions during the 2025-2026 season.

He also added the Africa Cup of Nations to his honours, although the result remains subject to a decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), and reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

That collection of achievements appeared to give the Morocco international a strong case for a place in the top 10. He remained a key figure for PSG despite missing 22 matches through injury, contributing to the club’s major successes while reinforcing his reputation as one of the leading right-backs in world football.

Hakimi’s attacking influence continues to distinguish him from many defenders. His pace, ability to make repeated runs and impact in the final third were reflected in his 2025-2026 record of four goals and 17 assists in 49 appearances.

On that basis, 13th place may initially appear disappointing, particularly given his sixth-place finish a year earlier. However, his position also highlights the recognition he received in an exceptionally competitive Ballon d’Or field.

Pau Cubarsi was the only defender to finish above him, taking 12th place. The young Spain international was also crowned a world champion with La Roja.

Hakimi finished ahead of several established defenders, including his PSG team-mates Willian Pacho, who was 20th, Nuno Mendes in 23rd and Marquinhos in 25th. Marc Cucurella was 18th, Gabriel 21st, Dayot Upamecano 26th and William Saliba 29th.

The final standings therefore placed Hakimi firmly among the leading defenders in the world, even if the presence of attacking stars and world champions in the top 10 made it difficult for him to challenge for a higher position.

Uncertainty over the Africa Cup of Nations title may also have cost him some votes. Nevertheless, he was PSG’s fourth-highest finisher, behind Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Fabian Ruiz, who will all be in the top 10.

Hakimi finished ahead of fellow PSG players Vitinha, who was 14th, and Joao Neves, who came 19th.

He was also the highest-ranked African player in the 2026 Ballon d’Or, finishing well above Sadio Mane in 29th. Hakimi will now have the opportunity to retain the African Ballon d’Or, which will be awarded on 7 December.