Maïli: "Hakimi Deserved African Player of the Year Award, El-Shibi Can Win Best Local Player Next Season"

Fiston Maïli, the Pyramids FC player, affirmed that Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi, Paris Saint-Germain's right-back, deserved to win the African Player of the Year award. He also praised the performance levels of his teammate Mohamed El-Shibi.

Speaking to the press after winning the Best Local Player in Africa award for 2025, Maïli said: "For me, these awards mean a lot in my life and career. Last season was very difficult, especially when you play in Egypt, where you play a large number of matches. When you succeed in having a great season and then get rewarded in the end, it's very special. I feel very proud tonight."

Regarding his teammate Mohamed El-Shibi, Maïli added: "My friend welcomed me very well at Pyramids FC. He speaks French, and so do I, which made communication easy for us. I believe he also had a fantastic season with Pyramids, with many assists, and was often the man of the match. He is an excellent and generous player, and I wish him a lot of success. Perhaps, God willing, next season he can also win the award, because what he delivered last season was amazing."

Regarding Hakimi winning the award for the continent's best player, Maïli explained: "He deserved the African Player of the Year award for what he did with Paris Saint-Germain. A defender who scores in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final certainly deserves the award."