Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy has stirred debate among football fans after naming Nigerian legend Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha as the greatest footballer of all time, dismissing the long-standing rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Grammy-winning singer made the remarks during an interview with ESPN, where he was asked to share his favourites across several football categories.
Without hesitation, Burna Boy named former Super Eagles captain Jay-Jay Okocha as the best playmaker he has ever watched.
He also selected the Nigerian icon as Africa’s greatest footballer before declaring him the greatest player in football history.
“I’ll say Jay-Jay Okocha. See, it’s between him and… who else? Pelé. I’m not doing that Ronaldo and Messi stuff,” Burna Boy said.
His comments have sparked widespread reactions on social media, with football fans weighing in on his decision to leave global icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo out of the greatest-of-all-time conversation.
Beyond the GOAT debate, Burna Boy also shared his choices in other football categories.
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He picked England captain Harry Kane as the best striker he has watched and named Tshwala Bam (Remix) as his favourite football-related song.
For the world’s best young player, the Afrobeats star selected Spanish sensation Lamine Yamal but admitted his loyalty to Manchester United influenced his decision to also mention midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
“Just because of Man United,” he said.
Burna Boy further revealed that Manchester United remains his favourite football club, while Mainoo is currently his favourite player at Old Trafford.
Asked which sporting event he would most like to perform at, the singer said the FIFA World Cup would be his dream stage.
His endorsement of Okocha ahead of football greats such as Messi and Ronaldo has reignited conversations about the enduring legacy of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers and his influence on the global game.
