Ballon d'Or 2026: Okocha bets everything on PSG's Mbappé
Amid the bustle of the city of London, the neon signs announce the 70th Ballon d’Or France Football ceremony scheduled for October 26. The event, which draws the biggest names in football, is set to welcome the voters who closed their ballots about ten days ago.
An African legend’s prediction
In an interview with Journal du Dimanche, the former attacking midfielder of Paris Saint‑Germain, Jay‑Jay Okocha, said that Kylian Mbappé was his favourite to succeed the last winner. The former Nigerian international believes the French striker deserves the award thanks to his individual performances.
Statistics that speak
Okocha highlighted that Mbappé was the top scorer of the World Cup with ten goals, of the Champions League with fifteen, and of the Spanish league with twenty‑five. These numbers, he says, fully justify his choice.
Fierce competition
The legendary player, however, reminded that the battle will be tough, citing half a dozen contenders, including Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and other Paris Saint‑Germain players. “The suspense is more exciting than ever,” he added.
While the votes remain secret, observers are waiting to see if the voters will share Okocha’s view at the London ceremony.