Ademola Lookman: Why the Nigerian Star Deserves to Be Crowned as Africa’s Finest
In a year filled with impressive displays by African footballers within and beyond the shores of the continent, few have shone as brightly as Nigeria and Atalanta talisman, Ademola Lookman. The 27-year-old forward has been a revelation since making the move to Serie A, combining breathtaking skill, clinical finishing, and relentless determination to cement his place as one of the finest players on the continent.
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With the African Footballer of the Year award ceremony set to take place today at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco, here are a few reasons why Lookman deserves to claim the prestigious honor.
Phenomenal Domestic Form
Lookman has been the driving force behind Atalanta’s consistent showing in the 2024/25 season. Head Coach Gian Paolo Gasperini has a knack for bringing out the best in his attackers, and Lookman has repaid that faith with 8 goals and 4 assists in 13 Serie A appearances so far. It’s safe to say that the diminutive forward has been a nightmare for defenders across Italy.
What sets Lookman apart is his ability to score a variety of goals. Whether it’s a poached finish in the 6-yard box, a long-range screamer, or a coolly converted penalty under pressure, he consistently delivers in the crucial moments. His performances have propelled Atalanta into the top spot of Serie A, making them serious contenders for the Scudetto.
Beyond his goal tally, Lookman’s work rate and versatility have been equally impressive. Operating primarily as a left-handed forward, he can also drop deep to link play or drift into the center to create space for teammates. This adaptability has made him indispensable to Gasperini’s system.
Impressive Performances In Europe
Lookman has also turned in decent performances in continental competition in the last calendar year. He produced an immaculate solo performance by netting a hat-trick as Atalanta claimed their first ever European trophy, beating Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 in the Europa league earlier in the year.
He already has 3 goals in the revamped UEFA Champions League group stage. His standout performance came in a clash against defending champions Real Madrid, where he netted a sublime near post finish in a narrow 3-2 defeat. Such performances highlight his ability to deliver on the biggest stages—a hallmark of truly world-class players.
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Shining On The International Stage
Lookman’s impact extends to the international stage as well, where he has become a key member of the Super Eagles’ attack. In the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, he scored crucial goals against Cameroon and Angola in Nigeria’s run to the final, where they lost out to hosts Ivory Coast.
His performances have sought to reinvigorate a Nigerian side transitioning to a new generation of talent and struggling for consistency, and he looks set to put in another impressive showing, with the Super Eagles poised to go one better at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco in mid-2025.
Comparison To Other Contenders
While the competition for African Footballer of the Year may seem close, Lookman’s contributions for both club and country put him a cut above the rest. Achraf Hakimi has had another strong year at PSG, but Morocco had a poor run in the last AFCON.
His compatriot Brahim Diaz won the last edition of the Champions League with Real Madrid but has only been a bit-part player for Los Blancos and is yet to truly shine for the Atlas Lions since switching allegiances from Spain in early 2024. Even the reigning AFPOTY, Victor Osimhen, has had some setbacks and was ultimately not shortlisted despite now finding form in the less glamorous Turkish Super Lig.
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Why He Deserves the Award
The African Footballer of the Year award is not just about numbers; it’s about impact, consistency, and the ability to inspire. Lookman has ticked every box. He has carried Atalanta on his back, thrilled fans with his dynamic style of play, and brought pride to Nigeria with his exploits in green and white.
At 27, Lookman is entering the prime of his career, and this award would be a fitting recognition of his incredible 2023/24 campaign. More importantly, it would serve as an inspiration to young African footballers dreaming of following in his footsteps.
With the awards on the horizon, there’s no doubt that Ademola Lookman has made a compelling case for himself. If he does deservedly claim the award, it will not only be a personal triumph but a celebration of the incredible talent coming out of Nigeria, one of Africa’s footballing hotbeds.
Lookman isn’t just a nominee — he’s the standout choice.
By: Edward Okaro / @KingArinze
Featured Image: @GabFoligno / ANP / Getty Images