Austin Jay Jay Okocha predicts Ballon d’Or and Champions League winners

Former Nigerian international Austin Jay Jay Okocha has named Kylian Mbappé as his preferred candidate for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Speaking to Le Journal du Dimanche, Okocha cited Mbappé’s prolific goalscoring records in the World Cup, the Champions League, and the Spanish league as the primary reasons for his selection.

Okocha noted that while the race is highly competitive—including contenders such as Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, and various Paris Saint-Germain players—Mbappé’s finishing ability sets him apart.

Regarding the UEFA Champions League, Okocha identified Manchester City, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich as the leading contenders to win the title. He highlighted Manchester City’s significant summer transfer spending, Barcelona’s strong start to the season driven by the Raphinha-Yamal partnership, and Bayern Munich’s squad continuity as key factors. Notably, Okocha did not include his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, in his shortlist of Champions League favourites.