Legendary Nigerian midfielder Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha has weighed in on a long-running debate about skill in football, naming Brazilian great Ronaldinho as the most skilful player he ever shared the pitch with. His comments came in a recent interview with Clutch 9, responding to a question prompted by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who once played with both stars at Paris Saint-Germain and admitted he couldn’t decide who was more skilful.
Okocha made clear that self-belief was central to his own style of play, saying he never regarded himself as inferior to any opponent and proudly embracing what he called the title of “chief flair officer.” He acknowledged Ronaldinho’s genius and creativity, saying the Brazilian brought something different to the game and that they clicked on the pitch because both grew up playing street football and shared a love for the game.
Asked directly to name the most skilful teammate he ever had, Okocha did not hesitate, selecting Ronaldinho without reservation. The former PSG and Bolton star explained that what made the Brazilian unique was his instinctive unpredictability, a trait he recognised in himself too, highlighting that neither could be easily read by opponents.
Okocha also reflected on his own confidence and fearlessness in attack, insisting that no defender intimidated him when he had the ball. He credited his mindset for allowing him to express his creativity and make decisive plays for his team.
On physical demands, Okocha singled out the English Premier League as the toughest competition he experienced, noting its pace and intensity exposed players lacking top fitness.
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