Former Super Eagles forward John Utaka has thrown his support behind Paris Saint-Germain and Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov as a strong contender for the Yashin Trophy, the annual award presented by France Football to honour the world's best goalkeeper.

The Yashin Trophy shortlist features 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 Safonov.

Alongside his backing for Safonov, Utaka named Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé as his top pick 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 told Euro Football.

Safonov had conceded a goal to Tolu Arokodare in the 71st minute of Russia's 1-1 draw with Nigeria on June 6, 2025.

He has since kept a clean sheet in Russia's 2-0 win over Iran on September 29, 2026, though it remains uncertain whether he will start in goal when Russia face the Super Eagles again on Tuesday.

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 also among the goalkeepers being closely watched by analysts and media professionals for the Yashin Trophy.

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