“Sure candidates” – Sunday Oliseh tips Bukayo Saka and four others to win the Ballon dʼOr

Former Super Eagles manager Sunday Oliseh has named Bukayo Saka and four other players as his top picks for the Ballon d’Or, describing them as players who bring joy back to watching football, Footynaija.com reports.

The former Nigeria captain praised their individual brilliance, skill, and impact on the game, tipping them to challenge for the top personal honour in world football.

Saka, 23, has enjoyed consistents seasons at Arsenal, contributing goals and assists as Mikel Arteta’s side push for the teams first Champions League trophy. Oliseh’s endorsement adds to the growing list of football figures backing Saka for global recognition.

Also on Oliseh’s list are young Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, Brazilian winger Raphinha, and Paris Saint-Germain duo Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele.

Each of them has been lighting up European football with top performances in their respective clubs this season.

In a response to a fan’s comment on X, Oliseh said:

“Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has so much vision, Raphinha makes it look effortlessly easy, Saka is so nimble-footed it is beautiful, Dembele is for me in company of Lamine Yamal — Ballon d’Or sure candidates.”

He added that these players have helped him enjoy football again:

“I am finally able to be fixated on the TV for ninety minutes thanks to these kinda players.”

Oliseh made the comments while reflecting on the new wave of technical and intelligent footballers dominating Europe.

The former Ajax and Juventus midfielder has always been vocal about players with flair and intelligence, and this latest statement shows his admiration for Saka and others who are currently raising the bar in world football.