Atalanta and Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has been honoured with a prestigious nomination for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, Soccernet.ng reports.
Lookman’s exceptional performances last season have propelled him into the ranks of football’s elite, earning him a well-deserved spot on the shortlist for one of the sport’s most coveted individual awards. The Nigerian star’s remarkable consistency, both for club and country, has not gone unnoticed.
Last season, Lookman played a pivotal role for Atalanta, delivering a standout hat-trick that singlehandedly secured the Europa League title for Gian Piero Gasperini’s men—a feat that will be remembered for years.
On the international stage, he was equally impressive, scoring three crucial goals and providing an assist that helped the Super Eagles advance to the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations under the guidance of coach José Peseiro.
These extraordinary contributions have led many to consider Lookman a strong contender for the next African Footballer of the Year award, and his Ballon d’Or nomination further solidifies his rising status in world football.
6️⃣/6️⃣ #ballondor pic.twitter.com/tOPGP9HAyo
— Ballon d'Or (@ballondor) September 4, 2024
It’s worth noting that last season, Napoli forward Victor Osimhen was crowned the 2023 African Footballer of the Year and finished eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
Now, the spotlight shifts to Lookman, as he aims to surpass his compatriot and bring more pride to Nigerian football fans, who eagerly await another moment of national triumph.
