PSG try to shut Hakimi's Ballon d'Or comments after claiming he deserves the award

Hakimi has been a key player for PSG last season, having won the Ligue 1 trophy, the UEFA Champions League, and other trophies.

Following his performance last season, his name made it to the top 30 Ballon d'Or list, which was released a few days ago

The fullback then made a statement in an interview saying he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or award after his performance in the UCL final.

The Moroccan defender told Canal+, via Sportal, that he deserved the prestigious award, citing his historic season in which he scored in the Champions League quarterfinals, semifinals, and final.

The reputable French publication claims PSG is backing Ousmane Dembélé for the Ballon d'Or and didn't want to offend other players, including Hakimi.

The Parisian club reportedly recognised the provocative nature of the interview and requested the removal of the section about the award. However, Hakimi refused, insisting on his right to express his ambitions.

PSG denied attempting to suppress the defender's statement, but L'Equipe stands by its reporting.

The Ballon d'Or winner will be announced at a ceremony on September 22nd. Nominees include Hakimi, Dembélé, Lamine Yamal, Mohamed Salah, Raphinha, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Vinicius Junior, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Cole Palmer, Harry Kane, Robert Lewandowski, Victor Osimhen and Florian Wirtz.