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Rabat – Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi has been named among the 26 finalists for the FIFPRO World 11 of 2025.
The list, announced by the International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO), recognizes the best players in the world based on votes from fellow professionals.
Hakimi, who plays as a right-back for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), earned his spot thanks to his outstanding performances between July 15, 2024, and August 3, 2025.
The 26-year-old received one of the highest vote counts among defenders, reflecting his impact on both club and international levels.
This nomination comes after a historic season for Hakimi. He finished sixth in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, the highest ever for a Moroccan player.
Hakimi also played a crucial role in PSG’s first-ever UEFA Champions League title, scoring in the final. His consistent form throughout the season was key to PSG’s domestic success, as they also won the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, and the French Super Cup.
Hakimi’s speed, defensive strength, and attacking contributions have made him one of the most complete full-backs in world football.
He joins a star-studded shortlist that includes top names like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé, and Mohamed Salah.
The final shortlist also includes top goalkeepers such as Alisson Becker, Thibaut Courtois, and Gianluigi Donnarumma, along with standout defenders like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Marquinhos.
In midfield, the list features star names such as Jude Bellingham, Kevin De Bruyne, Luka Modrić, Pedri, and Federico Valverde.
The forward line includes a selection of the world’s most prominent players, including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Mohamed Salah, Ousmane Dembélé, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal.
The final World 11 will be revealed on November 3, with one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards selected. An additional player will be added based on the highest remaining vote count.
Background about the FIFPRO award
The FIFPRO World 11 award was launched in 2005 by the International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO). It is the only global football honor voted exclusively by professional players.
Each year, thousands of players from around the world select the best performers in their positions based on their season’s impact.
The final team includes one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards, plus one additional outfield player with the next highest vote count.
Lionel Messi leads the men’s category with 17 appearances, followed by Cristiano Ronaldo with 15. In the women’s game, Wendie Renard and Lucy Bronze share the record with seven selections each.
From 2009 to 2023, the award was presented in partnership with FIFA under the name FIFA FIFPRO World 11.
Since 2024, FIFPRO has taken back the management of the award independently. The shortlist typically includes 26 finalists, from which the final 11 are announced.
This award is considered one of the most respected in football because it reflects the voice of the players themselves.
