2024 has marked a defining year for Ademola Lookman, whose achievements have echoed across both Europe and Africa. The 27-year-old Nigeria winger has been shortlisted as one of 30 nominees for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, an acknowledgment that underscores his impressive performances on the pitch. Representing Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), Lookman demonstrated his skill and consistency, and his season with Atalanta culminated in a historic triumph in Europe.
As the sole African on this year’s Ballon d’Or list, Lookman finds himself honored but humble. “It’s special being on the list and even more special being the only African,” he shared. The forward has expressed immense pride in being recognized, highlighting the strides taken by both his club and country. This year, Lookman is also a leading contender for the African Player of the Year award, to be decided in December, as his reputation continues to soar.
Triumphant in the Europa League
One of Lookman’s most memorable moments of the season came during the Europa League final, where he delivered a masterful hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen. His brilliance on the pitch led Atalanta to their first-ever European trophy, etching his name into the history books as the first player to score a hat-trick in a European final since Jupp Heynckes in 1975. This extraordinary display not only showcased his technical abilities but also his mental strength under pressure.
Recalling the historic night in Dublin, Lookman said, “The way we did it was incredible because Leverkusen were on fire that season.” His performance was hailed across the football world, and Atalanta’s victory stands as a testament to his dedication. From his beginnings at Charlton Athletic to his current heights in Italy, Lookman’s journey has been marked by perseverance and adaptability.
Thriving in Bergamo: The Italian Renaissance
Lookman’s move to Atalanta in 2022 proved to be a pivotal decision in his career, offering him the platform to hone his skills further. Transitioning to a new environment in Italy, Lookman adapted quickly to the language and culture, embracing Gian Piero Gasperini’s attacking philosophy. This alignment allowed him to maximize his potential, bringing out the best in his game and enabling him to become one of Serie A’s standout players.
“Coming out of my comfort zone is never easy,” he remarked, reflecting on the challenge of adapting to a different league. At Atalanta, he found a team that valued his creativity, an asset he showcased as the club qualified for the Champions League. Playing on Europe’s biggest stage has granted Lookman another opportunity to test himself, and he looks forward to the unique challenges that await.
Pride and Passion: Lookman’s Nigerian Connection
Despite his early success with England’s youth teams, Lookman has always felt a strong connection to his Nigerian roots. In 2022, he made the decision to represent Nigeria at the senior level, a choice he views with pride and gratitude. “I was always a Nigerian,” he emphasized, describing how he maintained a connection with his culture even while living in the UK. The Super Eagles welcomed him warmly, and his performances at the Afcon further solidified his bond with Nigerian fans.
Lookman’s passion for Nigeria was on display throughout Afcon, where he played a key role in the team’s journey to the final. Although the Super Eagles narrowly missed out on the title, he remained optimistic about their future. Now, with the team focused on qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lookman believes Nigeria’s squad is packed with potential. “Everybody knows we have a squad full of talent,” he said, confident that with time and unity, they will reach new heights on the international stage. Culled from BBC Sports
