Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has reacted after it was claimed that he will be crowned African Men’s Best Player ahead of Nigerian star Ademola Lookman and three other final nominees, according to All Soccer Nigeria.
Hakimi made the final shortlist for the CAF Player of the Year award alongside Lookman, Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, Guinea and Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, with each nominee earning a spot for their impressive performances in 2024.
However, viral reports from French and Egyptian outlets have claimed that the Moroccan is expected to be announced as African Footballer of the Year and will travel in a private jet with PSG president Nasser Al Khelaïfi to Marrakech after Paris Saint-Germain’s Ligue 1 match against Lyon.
The Real Madrid academy product enjoyed a fruitful 2024, helping PSG reach the Champions League semi-final while also winning the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, and the Trophée des Champions during the 2023-2024 campaign, securing his place among the final five contenders for the award.
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Hakimi’s reaction after leaked reports of beating Lookman to CAF POTY
Speaking to Téléfoot via All Soccer Nigeria, the Moroccan did not hide his desire to win the award, saying:
“This nomination rewards all the work I have done since I was little. I hope to win this important trophy in my career.”
The award ceremony will hold the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech on Monday, December 16, where it will be revealed whether the leaks are accurate or not.
