Grammy Award-winning Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy has sparked global debate after naming his all-time greatest footballers — excluding Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Instead, the “African Giant” placed Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, Brazil’s Ronaldinho, and Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen at the top of his list.
Burna Boy made the revelation during an appearance on GOAT Talk, a YouTube series by Complex, where celebrities debate their greatest picks across different categories. Asked to name his three Greatest of All Time footballers, Burna instantly mentioned Okocha, Ronaldinho, and Osimhen.
His selection surprised many, considering Messi and Ronaldo have dominated world football for nearly two decades, winning a combined 13 Ballon d’Or titles.
The Afrobeats star appeared alongside tennis legend Roger Federer, who lightened the mood by asking about Nigeria’s national team nickname.
“The Super Eagles,” Burna replied with a smile.
“Can they fly?” Federer joked.
“They can’t fly, but they can win some games… and lose some too,” Burna laughed.
Federer later revealed his own GOAT list, which included Zinedine Zidane, Thierry Henry, Diego Maradona, Messi, and Ronaldo.
For many Nigerians, Burna’s choice of Okocha was unsurprising. The former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder remains a fan favorite for his dazzling dribbles and flair. Ronaldinho, another magician of the game, is celebrated worldwide for his joyful style of play.
Osimhen’s inclusion highlights his rise as Nigeria’s biggest football export. At just 26, he has already been crowned African Player of the Year, earned a Ballon d’Or nomination in 2023, and now plays for Galatasaray while leading Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes.
