Okocha names UCL favourites, backs Mbappe for Ballon d’Or

Super Eagles legend Austin Okocha has backed Kylian Mbappe for the 2026 Ballon d’Or and tipped Manchester City, Barcelona and Bayern Munich as contenders for Champions League glory, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Speaking in an interview with French publication Le Journal du Dimanche ahead of Paris Saint-Germain’s trip to Manchester City, Okocha acknowledged the competitiveness of the Ballon d’Or race but believes the Real Madrid forward deserves the prestigious individual award.

The former PSG playmaker identified Harry Kane, Mbappe, Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal and several PSG players among the leading contenders, but pointed to the Frenchman’s goalscoring record as the reason he favours him.

“The suspense is more exciting than ever. There are a good half-dozen contenders: Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, the PSG players,” Okocha said.

“I think Mbappe deserves it for having been the top scorer in the World Cup (10 goals), the Champions League (15) and the Spanish league (25).”

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On the Champions League, Okocha identified Manchester City, Barcelona and Bayern Munich as his leading contenders, citing their squad strength, recruitment and performances.

He believes City remain serious challengers after investing heavily in their squad during the summer transfer window.

“Of course. City are still among the main contenders. They spent a lot of money last summer to strengthen their squad (nearly €500 million),” he said.

Okocha also backed Barcelona, highlighting their impressive start to the season and the attacking partnership between Raphinha and Yamal. He believes Bayern Munich will also be difficult to beat after retaining their core players.

“I also see FC Barcelona, who are having a remarkable start to the season with the Raphinha-Yamal duo, and Bayern Munich, who came very close last season and have managed to keep their starting eleven intact. With another year under their belts, this team will be difficult to beat,” he added.