Former Super Eagles striker John Utaka believes Paris Saint-Germain and Russia goalkeeper Matvey Safonov has a strong chance of winning the Yashin Trophy, awarded annually by France Football to the world's best-performing 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 Matvey Safonov.
Utaka has backed Safonov to challenge for the Yashin Trophy and identified Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé as his choice for the Ballon d'Or.
"Matvey Safonov is an excellent goalkeeper with incredible talent. He has a chance to become the best goalkeeper of the year. I would say Kylian Mbappé is the main contender for the Ballon d'Or ," Utaka said to Euro Football.
Safonov was beaten by Tolu Arokodare in the 71st minute of Russia's 1-1 draw against Nigeria on June 6, 2025.
After keeping a clean sheet in Russia's 2-0 win over Iran on September 29, 2026, it remains to be seen whether Safanov will start in goal against the Super Eagles next Tuesday.
The Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled to take place on October 26, 2026, at the London Palladium Theatre, with Athletic Club's Unai Simón and Arsenal's David Raya among the goalkeepers being tipped by experts and analysts as contenders for the award.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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