Former Super Eagles captain Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has opened up about his relationship with Brazilian football superstar Ronaldinho.

In an interview with Brilla FM, Okocha shared insights into their time together during their one-year stint at French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

PSG signed Okocha for approximately £14 million shortly after the 1998 FIFA World Cup, and Ronaldinho joined the club three years later. Okocha eventually left for England in 2002.

There has been speculation among Nigerian football fans that Okocha taught Ronaldinho some of his incredible skills. Addressing the claim, Okocha clarified:

“Well, I don’t know about teaching him tricks. But when you have a similar background, sometimes you do things in training without realizing someone is emulating you. We had a very good relationship, and we still do.”

He added: “PSG was his first club outside Brazil when he was just 20 years old. I could see my own humble beginnings in him. He struggled to adapt; he couldn’t speak the language, and he wasn’t playing regularly.”

The former Fenerbahce midfielder admitted he took on a big-brother role for the young Ronaldinho, offering guidance and support as the Brazilian adjusted to European football.

“I took him in and would advise him. It seemed like I mentored him, but his talent was obvious for everyone to see. Maybe he picked up a few things from me, but I also admired his talent,” Okocha noted.

After spending four seasons in France, Okocha moved to England and joined Bolton Wanderers, where he became a fan favorite. His popularity inspired fans to print shirts with the inscription: “Jay-Jay – so good they named him twice,” according to SuperSport.

Meanwhile, Ronaldinho spent two seasons at PSG before sealing a sensational move to Spanish giants Barcelona. The Catalan club outbid Manchester United for Ronaldinho's signature, securing him in a €30 million deal.

Despite their relatively brief time together at PSG, Okocha and Ronaldinho's mutual respect and shared admiration remain a testament to their enduring connection.