Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman has been nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or award, one of football’s most prestigious individual honors. The 26-year-old had an outstanding 2023-24 season, playing a crucial role for both his club, Atalanta, and his country, Nigeria.
Lookman’s nomination comes on the back of a remarkable season in which he scored 22 goals and provided 11 assists across 66 appearances in all competitions. His performance was instrumental in Atalanta’s success, helping them secure their first trophy in 61 years by winning the UEFA Europa League. In the final, Lookman made history by scoring a hat-trick, becoming the first African player to achieve such a feat in a European final.
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In addition to his club success, Lookman was a key player for Nigeria during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire. His contributions were vital in Nigeria’s run to the final, where they finished as runners-up. His stellar performances throughout the tournament further solidified his reputation as one of Africa’s top footballers.
Lookman’s Ballon d’Or nomination has also fueled expectations that he could follow in the footsteps of his compatriot Victor Osimhen, who won the African Footballer of the Year award last year. Osimhen, who finished eighth in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings after leading Napoli to their first Scudetto in 33 years, set a high bar for Nigerian footballers on the global stage. Lookman’s nomination now positions him as a strong contender for this year’s African Player of the Year award.
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The Super Eagles have already congratulated Lookman on his achievement and recognition on the global stage. If he continues to perform at this level, he could very well succeed Osimhen as Africa’s best player.
Currently in Uyo, Nigeria, preparing for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda, Lookman becomes the eighth Nigerian player to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or, joining the ranks of football legends such as Jay-Jay Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, and Sunday Oliseh.