Ballon d'Or 2025: Hakimi's comments catch Ousmane Dembélé's camp off guard | OneFootball

Achraf Hakimi

Achraf Hakimi told Canal+ that he deserves the 2025 Ballon d'Or—a statement that hasn't gone down well with those close to Ousmane Dembélé.

Which PSG player will claim the 2025 Ballon d'Or? While Ousmane Dembélé received public backing from PSG following their Champions League triumph, Achraf Hakimi's belief that he deserves the trophy "more than a forward", has reportedly prompted the French club to rethink its communication strategy, according to L'Equipe this Sunday.

The outlet reports that PSG officials, eager to avoid controversy, tried to have the Moroccan star's comments about the Ballon d'Or removed from his Canal+ interview, but Hakimi refused. Meanwhile, Hakimi's statement has stirred a reaction from Dembélé's camp.

Indeed, some of Dembélé's inner circle were "surprised" by the Moroccan's public campaign. The Frenchman's representatives, however, were quick to defuse any potential controversy. "Ousmane is fully focused on the start of the season. We don't want to get involved in any polemics. The most important thing for us remains the team, and Ousmane appreciated the support from his teammates. As for the rest, everyone is free to say what they want. It's not our place to interpret other people's opinions," they stated.