News

Kanu cites two key reasons why Nigeria & Atalanta’s Lookman will win Africa’s Best Player award

Legendary Nigerian forward Nwankwo Kanu believes that Ademola Lookman is set to be crowned Africa’s Footballer of the Year, citing two compelling reasons for his confidence, Soccernet.ng reports.

Kanu, who won the prestigious award twice — once in 1996 and again in 1999 — was the last Nigerian to receive the honour before Victor Osimhen claimed it last year.

This year, Lookman and Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, are the only Nigerian players on CAF’s final ten-man shortlist for Africa’s Best Player award, with Osimhen not in the running.

Lookman is competing with nine other nominees, but Kanu sees the Atalanta winger as the standout candidate for the top prize.

Kanu pointed to Lookman’s impressive 14th-place finish in the Ballon d’Or ranking as well as his exploits for Nigeria and Atalanta as strong indicators of his merit.

Lookman was the only African player among the Ballon d’Or’s 30 finalists, an achievement Kanu sees as a testament to his excellence.

“Lookman is a very good player, humble, works very hard and going by the records, I believe he will win,” Kanu told Brila FM as per DailyPost.

“He was ranked well in the Ballon d’Or (14th). He has done well for both club and country.”

Ademola Lookman

The 27-year-old Lookman had a stellar year, leading Nigeria to the AFCON final and helping Atalanta secure the Europa League title.

Kanu praised his achievements both at the club and international levels, stating,

“I don’t know of any African player who has done better than him this year.”

The 2024 CAF Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday, December 16, when Africa’s top football talents will be honoured.

Imhons Erons

Share
Published by
Imhons Erons

Recent Posts

Southampton coach Russell Martins issues Paul Onuachu update amid ACL injury fears

Southampton coach Russell Martin has allayed fears that Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu suffered a… Read More

2 hours ago

Augustine Eguavoen has my full support – Former Borussia Dortmund star

Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh has thrown his weight behind Augustine Eguavoen, who currently… Read More

9 hours ago

“He can’t do half of what Okocha did” – Former Nigeria International shades Iwobi, calls for gifted playmakers in Super Eagles squad

Former Super Eagles attacking midfielder, Etim Esin, has bemoaned the lack of creativity amongst the… Read More

10 hours ago

Onuachu impresses on full season debut, but Salah-inspired Liverpool down Southampton

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu started his first game of the season for Southampton, but… Read More

10 hours ago

What happens if he gets injured? – Former Nigeria midfielder laments Super Eagles over-reliance on Victor Osimhen

Former Super Eagles attacking midfielder, Etim Esin, has revealed the Super Eagles must reduce their… Read More

11 hours ago

“Perhaps the best player in the league” – Former Galatasaray superstar praises Osimhen after Bodrumspor display

Former Turkey striker Umit Karan has praised Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen for his performance… Read More

14 hours ago