Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has cemented his place among football’s elite by claiming the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year award.
This prestigious honor, presented in Marrakech, Morocco, celebrates Lookman’s extraordinary achievements for Atalanta and the Nigerian national team throughout a stellar year.
Lookman’s remarkable hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final and his instrumental role in Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign have marked him as a standout talent on the global stage.
From London Roots to African Pride
Born on October 20, 1997, in Wandsworth, London, to Nigerian parents, Lookman grew up deeply connected to his heritage. His upbringing in a culturally vibrant Nigerian household influenced both his identity and career, laying the foundation for his journey to football greatness.
Lookman excelled both academically and athletically during his time at St. Thomas the Apostle College in Peckham, achieving outstanding GCSE results while nurturing his passion for football. His journey began on the community pitches of Peckham, where his raw talent earned him a spot at Waterloo FC’s youth academy at just 11 years old.
By 2013, Lookman’s skill and determination led him to Charlton Athletic’s academy, marking the start of his professional football career. He made his senior debut for Charlton in November 2015, scoring his first professional goal just a month later against Brighton & Hove Albion.
A Career of Challenges and Triumphs
In January 2017, Lookman signed with Premier League side Everton for £11 million, making an immediate impact with a debut goal against Manchester City. However, limited opportunities at Everton prompted moves to RB Leipzig in Germany and subsequent loan spells at Fulham and Leicester City.
Lookman’s breakthrough came in 2022 when he joined Serie A side Atalanta on a four-year deal. His debut season was exceptional, culminating in 15 goals and Atalanta’s Player of the Season award.
The pinnacle of Lookman’s club career came on May 22, 2024, in the UEFA Europa League final, where he scored a breathtaking hat-trick to secure Atalanta’s historic 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. The win delivered Atalanta’s first-ever European title and only their second major trophy in over 60 years.
International Stardom and Super Eagles Legacy
Lookman began his international career representing England at youth level, including their victorious 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign. However, in 2020, he committed to representing Nigeria, debuting for the Super Eagles in 2022. He has since become a pivotal figure, helping the team reach the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final.
His unforgettable performance in the Europa League final earned him a rare 10/10 rating from L’Équipe, placing him in the company of legends like Lionel Messi and Neymar.
A Symbol of Inspiration
Ademola Lookman’s rise from the streets of Peckham to becoming the 2024 African Player of the Year is a testament to his talent, resilience, and dedication. His journey inspires countless young footballers across Africa and beyond, proving that dreams can be achieved with hard work and determination.
