Former Zambia and Morocco head coach Hervé Renard has named Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi as his favourite to win this year's Ballon d’Or award.

According to Renard, the Paris Saint-Germain defender outperformed the likes of Lamine Yamal, Ousmane Dembélé, Vitinha, and Kylian Mbappé—who have also been named among the favourites for the prestigious prize.

The 56-year-old, who was previously linked to the Super Eagles job prior to Eric Chelle’s appointment, believes Hakimi is currently the best player on the African continent.

Hakimi had a remarkable campaign under Luis Enrique at PSG, winning a historic treble and finishing as runners-up in the FIFA Club World Cup.

“He is one of the best players in the world today. For me, he is the Ballon d’Or of this season,” Renard was quoted by TNT Sports.

“Today, Achraf Hakimi is the best player on the continent,” he added.

The 2025 Ballon d’Or gala will be held on September 22 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.

WDN