Former Nigeria international forward John Utaka has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding world football’s most prestigious individual honors, boldly tipping Paris Saint-Germain’s Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov to claim the Yashin Trophy while backing French superstar Kylian Mbappé to take home the coveted Ballon d’Or.
The Yashin Trophy, introduced by France Football in 2019 to honor the memory of legendary Soviet goalkeeper Lev Yashin—the only shot-stopper ever to win the Ballon d’Or—is awarded annually to the world’s best-performing goalkeeper. Utaka, who enjoyed a distinguished career across Europe including memorable spells in France and England, believes Safonov possesses the caliber and potential to capture the goalkeeping crown.
Safonov, who completed a high-profile transfer from FC Krasnodar to French champions Paris Saint-Germain, has quickly drawn attention across the continent. Although breaking into the starting role at a club of PSG’s stature represents a massive test, Utaka sees the Russian international’s technical agility, commanding presence, and shot-stopping ability as attributes worthy of global recognition. In Utaka’s view, Safonov’s growing profile on the European stage gives him a genuine chance to stand out among the elite.
The competition for the Yashin Trophy remains fierce, featuring an established roster of world-class names. The shortlist spotlight includes formidable performers such as Morocco and Al Hilal standout Yassine Bounou, whose heroics for club and country have earned him international plaudits, alongside established titans like Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois. To capture the prize, Safonov will have to edge past these seasoned campaigners, but Utaka remains confident in the Russian’s upward trajectory.
Turning his attention to the headline award, the Ballon d’Or, Utaka did not hesitate to back Kylian Mbappé. Having spent several defining years of his playing career in Ligue 1—most notably winning a historic French league championship with Montpellier in 2012 alongside spells at Lens and Rennes—Utaka understands the demands of French and European football intimately. He believes Mbappé’s extraordinary goalscoring record, blistering pace, and ability to decide crucial matches on the grandest stages cement his standing as the frontrunner for football’s ultimate individual accolade.
Utaka’s endorsements reflect both his appreciation for rising talent and his admiration for established excellence. While Safonov faces a tough battle against seasoned goalkeepers to claim the Yashin Trophy, the former Super Eagles striker’s vocal support highlights the Russian’s rapid rise. At the same time, Utaka’s belief in Mbappé reinforces the widespread expectation that the French forward is primed to firmly establish his era at the pinnacle of the global game.