How Ademola Lookman Became Africa’s Best Footballer After Choosing Nigeria

In a moment that epitomized resilience and transformation, Ademola Lookman, the Atalanta winger who chose to represent Nigeria just two years ago, has ascended to the summit of African football by being named the 2024 African Player of the Year.

The award, presented in Marrakech, Morocco, marked a crowning achievement for Lookman, who donned traditional Nigerian attire as he reflected on his extraordinary journey. “Four years ago, I failed in front of the world. Fast forward, I am now Africa’s best player,” he declared, urging young people to turn their struggles into strength.

A Bold Switch of Allegiance

Born in Wandsworth, England, to Nigerian parents, Lookman represented England at the youth level, playing a pivotal role in their 2017 U-20 World Cup triumph. However, his career trajectory stalled amid inconsistent spells at Charlton, Everton, and RB Leipzig, followed by mixed loans at Fulham and Leicester City.

In 2022, Lookman made the pivotal decision to switch his international allegiance to Nigeria, a move that reignited his career. His debut for the Super Eagles came during Nigeria’s 2022 World Cup play-off against Ghana, a bittersweet introduction as Nigeria missed out on qualification.

A Star Emerges in Bergamo

That same year, Lookman joined Atalanta, leaving behind England’s football scene to establish himself in Serie A. His debut season was stellar, scoring 13 goals and helping Atalanta secure European football. The following season, he added 11 goals to his tally, playing a crucial role in the club’s Champions League qualification.

Lookman’s prowess shone brightest in the 2024 Europa League final, where his hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen ended their 51-game unbeaten run and secured Atalanta’s first continental trophy since 1963. The achievement made him the first African to score a treble in a UEFA competition final.

His contributions earned him Atalanta’s Player of the Year award and a spot in the Europa League’s Team of the Season.

Super Eagles’ Rising Star

On the international stage, Lookman was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. Scoring three goals and earning a spot in the Team of the Tournament, he solidified his status as one of Africa’s finest talents.

From navigating career setbacks to becoming a continental hero, Lookman’s story is one of grit and determination. His 2024 African Player of the Year award cements his legacy as a beacon of hope for aspiring players.

“This award is a blessing to me, my family, and my nation,” Lookman said. “To be recognized as Africa’s best is truly incredible.”

At just 27, with Europe’s elite clubs circling and Atalanta chasing domestic glory, Lookman’s ascent appears far from over. For the Super Eagle who dared to dream, the sky is no limit.

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