The Grammy winner picks the Nigerian legend as football’s greatest player
Afrobeats star Burna Boy named Jay-Jay Okocha the greatest football player in history during an ESPN interview. He openly rejected the popular Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo debate. He also praised young stars Lamine Yamal and Kobbie Mainoo.
On July 30, 2026, Afrobeats star Burna Boy named Jay-Jay Okocha as his greatest footballer. The singer ignored the global debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Burna Boy shared his top football picks during a recent chat with ESPN. He placed Okocha at the very top of his list. The singer praised the former Super Eagles captain highly.
The ultimate football picks
ESPN asked the music star to name the best playmaker. Burna Boy gave a very fast reply.
”Best playmaker is Jay-Jay Okocha,” Burna Boy declared.
He picked Okocha as the best African player ever. Okocha won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994. The singer then gave the legend the biggest title in the sport.
”I’ll say Jay-Jay Okocha. See, it’s between him and like, like who else? Pelé. I’m not doing that Ronaldo and Messi stuff,” Burna Boy declared.
Favourite club and rising stars
The Grammy winner named Harry Kane as his best striker. He then chose Tshwala Bam Remix as his favourite football song.
Burna Boy also shared his thoughts on young players. He picked Barcelona star Lamine Yamal first. He then added Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo to the list.
”Just ’cause of Man U,” he noted.
The singer revealed Manchester United as his favourite football club. He named Mainoo as his top player at the English team.
Burna Boy then picked his dream sporting event. He wants to perform at a major global tournament. Fans loved his unique choices across social media.
”FIFA World Cup,” he stated.
