Former Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano has named Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman the best forward of the 2023-2024 season, despite the Nigerian star being overlooked in two categories at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards.
At the prestigious awards ceremony held on Friday, December 27, at the Atlantis Hotel in La Palmera, Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior was crowned the Best Player of 2024. The Brazilian also took home the Best Forward award, triumphing over other nominees such as Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan), Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain), Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), and Lamine Yamal (Barcelona).
Viviano, however, believes Lookman’s achievements last season make him deserving of the title. He specifically highlighted Lookman’s historic hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final as a defining moment of his campaign.
“Lookman’s success on the pitch is a product of his immense natural talent combined with consistent physical and mental preparation,” Viviano remarked.
The 27-year-old Charlton Athletic academy graduate had an outstanding season for Atalanta, scoring 17 goals and providing 10 assists across 45 appearances in all competitions.
On the international stage, Lookman also shone for Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations, netting three goals and delivering one assist to guide the Super Eagles to the final. Although Nigeria narrowly lost to host nation Ivory Coast, Lookman’s performances earned widespread acclaim.
His efforts throughout the year were recognized when he was named African Footballer of the Year on December 16. Lookman also secured a Ballon d’Or nomination, finishing 14th in the final rankings.
Despite his Globe Soccer Awards snub, Lookman’s achievements have solidified his status as one of football’s standout forwards of the season.
