Jay Jay Okocha names favourites to win UEFA Champions League, tips Mbappé for Ballon d'Or
Spread the word Super Eagles legend Austin "Jay-Jay" Okocha has named Barcelona, Manchester City and Bayern Munich as his leading contenders for this season's UEFA Champions League title while backing Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or. The former Nigerian captain gave his assessment in an interview with French publication Le Journal du Dimanche, highlighting the quality of the three European clubs and Mbappé's goalscoring achievements as the new campaign gathers momentum.
Blueprint reports Okocha's choices have generated interest, particularly because his list excludes reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain, his former club, despite the French side's recent standing among Europe's elite. His selection of Barcelona, Manchester City and Bayern Munich reflects his confidence in their squad strength, attacking quality and capacity to compete for the continent's most prestigious club trophy.
Okocha explains why Mbappé deserves Ballon d'Or Okocha believes Mbappé has presented a compelling case for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, pointing to the forward's outstanding goalscoring record across major competitions. The Nigerian football icon cited Mbappé's achievements at the World Cup, in the UEFA Champions League and in the Spanish league as key reasons for his preference, arguing that the Frenchman's consistency in front of goal distinguishes him from other contenders.
Mbappé reportedly scored 10 goals at the World Cup, 15 in the Champions League and 25 in the Spanish league, figures Okocha considers significant in the race for the individual honour. The Real Madrid forward, who has established himself as one of the leading attackers in world football, faces competition from several prominent names, including Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane and players from Paris Saint-Germain.
Okocha acknowledged the competitiveness of the contest, noting that several footballers have credible claims to the award. His backing of Mbappé places particular emphasis on measurable achievements, especially goals scored in high-profile competitions, although the eventual winner will be determined through the award's voting process.
The contest has also attracted attention because of the emergence of younger players such as Yamal, whose performances have positioned him among the most discussed talents in world football. Manchester City earn Okocha's backing Manchester City are among Okocha's three favourites to win the Champions League, with the former Super Eagles captain pointing to the club's substantial investment in strengthening its squad.
City have continued to pursue their ambition of dominating European football, using their financial resources to recruit players capable of improving competition for places and providing greater depth across the team. Okocha believes the club's recruitment drive has reinforced its position among the leading contenders for the trophy.
Manchester City's experience in the competition and the quality available within their squad make them a formidable opponent, particularly over a campaign that demands consistency across several months. However, financial investment alone does not guarantee European success.
The English club will still need to demonstrate tactical flexibility, defensive discipline and composure in decisive matches, especially when the competition reaches the knockout stages. The ability to manage injuries, maintain form and deliver under pressure could prove equally important in determining whether City convert their resources into another Champions League triumph.