Achraf Hakimi, a natural-born Captain

Moroccan worldwide Achraf Hakimi has been lauded for his standout performances with Paris Saint-Germain and his management function with the nationwide group in a characteristic by French sports activities program Téléfoot. Hakimi, nominated for the 2024 African Ballon d’Or, will discover out if he wins the distinguished award Monday in Marrakech.

Morocco’s head coach Walid Regragui praised Hakimi’s affect each on and off the pitch, describing him as a pure chief. “A leader doesn’t need the captain’s armband to show their personality. Achraf has always been a leader, whether he wears the armband or not,” mentioned Regragui. He added that Hakimi’s potential to foster camaraderie amongst his teammates is as very important as his stellar on-field performances.

AS Monaco midfielder Elias Ben Seghir echoed Regragui’s sentiments, highlighting Hakimi’s humility and assist for fellow gamers. “Achraf welcomes every new player to the team with the same warmth. He’s incredibly humble, listens to everyone, and doesn’t act like a superstar. Instead, he offers support, inspiring us to give our best,” Ben Seghir mentioned.

Ben Seghir emphasised Hakimi’s advantage for the award, calling him “an incredible player and an inspiring leader” who serves as a task mannequin for younger athletes.

Hakimi is competing for the African Player of the Year award alongside Simon Adingra of Brighton & Hove Albion and Serhou Guirassy of Borussia Dortmund. The winner shall be introduced throughout a ceremony in Marrakech on Monday.