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“It was our only toy” — Jay-Jay Okocha explains how he enjoys playing football
By Monsurah Olatunji
Former Nigerian international Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has revealed how his love for football developed without any formal coaching or structured training.
The renowned midfielder, known for his captivating flair and unique style, credits his early experiences with the game for shaping his extraordinary talent.
Okocha’s magical dribbling skills and dazzling footwork have left a lasting impact on fans and fellow professionals alike, with many even suggesting that he taught Ronaldinho the art of dribbling during their time at Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the former Bolton Wanderers star insists that football, for him, has always been about joy, freedom, and unstructured play.
Reflecting on his early days, Okocha shared that he never received formal instruction but instead developed his skills in a natural, carefree environment.
“I think it was my background, my upbringing, playing for the love of the game as a child. I wasn’t taught how to play football; I went out there and just started playing because I love the game,” Okocha told Sky Sports.
He recalled how football was his only toy growing up, offering a space where he could express his happiness without the constraints of a manager or structured coaching.
“It was our only toy, it was where we could express our joy, our freedom without any manager, anybody nagging you, telling you what to do.”
For Okocha, football was never just a job — it was a passion.
“Taking football on later as my profession, you can imagine how good it was to have your toy and be paid to have it,” he added.
