December 15, (THEWILL) – With Marrakech, Morocco, preparing to crown the continent’s finest footballer, Ademola Lookman stands on the cusp of etching his name among Africa’s elite. Lookman’s inclusion in the CAF African Footballer of the Year shortlist is a defining moment in what has been a spectacular year for the Nigerian forward. His rise in European football and growing influence on the international stage has made him one of the standout players from Africa in the past season. Lookman’s achievements, when compared to his competitors for the award, highlight his readiness to claim the prestigious accolade.
Throughout the 2023/2024 season, Lookman delivered performances that have firmly cemented his place among Europe’s top football talents. In Serie A, the Nigerian was a revelation for Atalanta, scoring 19 league goals and becoming one of the most important players for the team. His clinical finishing, intelligent movement off the ball, and knack for being decisive in crucial matches were key to Atalanta notching a top-four finish in the league.
This achievement ensured Atalanta would return to the UEFA Champions League, solidifying their status as a force in Italian football. Lookman’s contributions went beyond the league, as he played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s historic Europa League campaign.
The final of the Europa League was where the 27-year-old truly announced himself to the world that had not previously heard of him. In a thrilling display of attacking mastery, he scored a remarkable hat-trick that propelled Atalanta to their first European title in history. That single performance, in such a high-stakes match, was enough to elevate him to the pantheon of unforgettable moments in modern football.
Beyond his goals, Lookman also provided seven assists across all competitions, underlining his ability to contribute to his team’s success in multiple ways. This versatility and consistency have made him a standout figure in European football this season.
On the international stage, he carried his impressive form into Nigeria’s AFCON qualification campaign. Representing the Super Eagles, Lookman’s goals and creative output were instrumental in ensuring Nigeria secured their place in the upcoming continental showpiece. His ability to rise to the occasion in critical matches for both club and country is a testament to his quality as a player. This dual impact is what makes Lookman’s case for the CAF award so compelling, as it highlights his capacity to excel on multiple fronts.
Perhaps the most significant validation of Lookman’s achievements came with his inclusion in the extended 30-man Ballon d’Or nomination list and his 14th place finish. This recognition, coming in a year when competition for the Ballon d’Or was fierce, is an acknowledgment of the consistent excellence that he displayed throughout the season. Being considered among the world’s best players is no small feat and for a Nigerian player, it underscores the growing influence of African talent in global football. Lookman’s Ballon d’Or place is particularly significant because it locates him on a platform that transcends the African continent, firmly positioning him as a global star.
This recognition also sets Lookman apart from his competitors for the CAF African Footballer of the Year award. While all nominees have had commendable seasons, none have managed to combine individual brilliance with historical achievements and global recognition in the same way that Lookman has. Achraf Hakimi, for instance, had another solid year with Paris Saint-Germain, winning domestic league and cup titles. However, his performances at the Africa Cup of Nations were underwhelming, and PSG’s inability to progress far in the UEFA Champions League further diminishes the overall impact of his season. Hakimi’s contributions, while significant, do not match the historical weight of Lookman’s Europa League triumph and Ballon d’Or nod.
Similarly, Serhou Guirassy had an impressive campaign in the Bundesliga, scoring 28 goals. Yet, his season was hampered by injuries, and he failed to secure any silverware. On the international front, Guirassy’s Guinea did not qualify for the next AFCON, limiting his overall influence beyond club football. Simon Adingra, another strong contender, delivered notable performances at AFCON, particularly in the final against Nigeria. However, his inconsistency at the club level and the lack of comparable achievements make his case less compelling than Lookman’s. Finally, Ronwen Williams, the only Africa-based nominee, enjoyed a record-breaking year with Mamelodi Sundowns and set a CAF record for penalty saves. While his accomplishments as a goalkeeper are impressive, the nature of his contributions cannot be directly compared to the decisive goals and assists that Lookman has provided.
Lookman’s ability to deliver significant contributions across competitions, combined with his Ballon d’Or recognition, gives him a unique edge over his rivals. His achievements are not only a testament to his talent but also a reflection of his growth as a player. Few players have managed to blend such consistency and impact, and fewer still have done so while breaking new ground for their clubs and countries.
The significance of Lookman potentially winning the CAF African Footballer of the Year award goes beyond individual accolades. It would mark a moment of great pride for Nigerian football, solidifying the country’s ongoing status as a force on the continent. Following Osimhen’s triumph in 2023, Lookman’s victory would make it two consecutive wins for Nigeria, a feat that would evoke memories of the golden era of Nigerian football in the 1990s. Back-to-back wins by Nigerian players would serve as a reminder of the immense talent that the country continues to produce and its growing influence on global football.
Moreover, Lookman’s success has the potential to inspire a new generation of Nigerian players, both at home and abroad. His journey from representing England at youth level to becoming one of Nigeria’s leading stars is a story of commitment and belief. It highlights the importance of staying focused and taking advantage of opportunities when they arise. Lookman’s rise also underscores the growing trend of Nigerian players excelling in Europe’s top leagues, breaking records, and achieving milestones that were once seemed out of reach.
Lookman’s case for the CAF African Footballer of the Year award is built on a foundation of consistency, achievement, and recognition at the highest levels of the game. His performances for Atalanta and Nigeria have not only been decisive but also transformative, helping to shape the outcomes of competitions and claim a place in football history. Lookman’s Europa League hat-trick, his vital contributions to Nigeria’s AFCON qualification, and his Ballon d’Or nomination are all evidence of a player at the peak of his powers.
If Ademola Lookman is named Africa’s best footballer, it will be a deserving reward for a season that has been nothing short of extraordinary. It will also be a moment of celebration for Nigerian football, reinforcing the country’s position as a powerhouse in African football and a growing force in the global game. Lookman’s achievements in the past year have set a standard of excellence that will inspire players and fans alike for years to come.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
