2026 Ballon d’Or: John Utaka names best player, goalkeeper to win awards

Former Super Eagles forward John Utaka has endorsed Paris Saint-Germain and Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov as a strong contender for the Yashin Trophy, an annual accolade presented by France Football to recognize the world’s most distinguished goalkeeper.

The Yashin Trophy shortlist comprises Yassine Bounou (Al Hilal), Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid), Gregor Kobel (Borussia Dortmund), Joan García (Barcelona), Édouard Mendy (Al Ahli), Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa/Chelsea), David Raya (Arsenal), Vozinha (Chaves/Colo-Colo), Unai Simón (Athletic Club), and Matvey Safonov.

Utaka has voiced his backing for Safonov’s candidacy for the Yashin Trophy and has identified Real Madrid’s elite forward Kylian Mbappé as his top choice for the Ballon d’Or.

“Matvey Safonov demonstrates exceptional goalkeeping abilities with remarkable potential. He possesses a genuine opportunity to be recognized as the year’s premier goalkeeper. In my assessment, Kylian Mbappé stands as the primary candidate for the Ballon d’Or,” Utaka communicated to Euro Football.

Safonov conceded a goal from Tolu Arokodare during the 71st minute of Russia’s 1-1 draw against Nigeria on June 6, 2025.

Following Russia’s 2-0 triumph over Iran on September 29, 2026, in which Safonov recorded a clean sheet, uncertainty persists regarding whether Safonov will occupy the goalkeeper role in the forthcoming Tuesday match against the Super Eagles.

The Ballon d’Or awards ceremony is scheduled for October 26, 2026, at London’s Palladium Theatre, with Athletic Club’s Unai Simón and Arsenal’s David Raya among the goalkeepers being evaluated by analysts and media professionals as potential award recipients.