ADEMOLA Lookman, Nigeria’s football sensation playing for Italy’s Atalanta, has ignited excitement with his nomination for the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or. Lookman, known for his lethal attacking prowess, is the only African footballer nominated for this year’s award, placing him in the global spotlight. His remarkable achievements on the pitch have already cemented his status as one of Africa’s most exciting talents.
Lookman’s nomination comes after a stellar season, culminating in a breathtaking hat-trick during the 2024 UEFA Europa League final, where he led Atalanta to victory over Bayer Leverkusen. His nomination is not just a personal triumph but a moment of pride for African football as he competes against some of the world’s biggest names for the prestigious award.
A night of magnificence: the Europa League final
On May 22, 2024, Ademola Lookman seized his moment of glory in the UEFA Europa League final. The Aviva Stadium in Dublin witnessed a masterclass in finishing, as Lookman dominated Bayer Leverkusen’s defence with his relentless attack. He scored three spectacular goals, becoming the first player in UEFA Europa League history to complete a hat-trick in the final. This performance not only secured Atalanta’s first European title but also highlighted Lookman’s immense potential on the global stage.
Lookman’s success at Atalanta comes after a well-travelled career, with stints in the English Premier League and Germany’s Bundesliga. His time at clubs such as Everton, Fulham, and RB Leipzig has honed his craft, with the Italian Serie A proving to be the platform where he truly flourished. His disciplined approach, tactical awareness, and explosive speed make him one of the most formidable forwards in European football today.
Lookman’s journey: from England’s youth teams to Nigeria’s Super Eagles
Born in London in 1997, Lookman represented England at various youth levels, even winning the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2017. However, his decision to represent Nigeria at the senior level proved to be a turning point in his career. Joining Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Lookman quickly became a fan favourite, scoring crucial goals during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria secured a silver medal.
His international career with Nigeria adds a deeper layer to his footballing journey, symbolising his connection with the African continent and serving as inspiration for young African footballers. By choosing Nigeria over England, Lookman has cemented his legacy as one of Africa’s brightest footballing talents, and his Ballon d’Or nomination is a testament to his contributions both at club and international levels.
The qualities behind Lookman’s success
Lookman’s success is driven by a combination of technical skill, tenacity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to navigate tight spaces, his composed finishing under pressure, and his explosive pace make him a constant threat to defenders. But it’s not just his technical ability that sets him apart; Lookman possesses a level of maturity and discipline that belies his age, making him a crucial asset to any team.
In the Europa League final, Lookman demonstrated these qualities in abundance. He effortlessly switched between both feet, terrorising the Bayer Leverkusen defence and scoring with both precision and power. His performance in Dublin epitomised what makes Lookman special: a forward who thrives in high-stakes moments and consistently delivers for his team.
Beyond the pitch: a role model for young African talent
Ademola Lookman’s journey from England’s youth teams to becoming a Ballon d’Or nominee for Nigeria is a beacon of hope for young African footballers. His story underscores the importance of embracing one’s heritage and making bold decisions to carve out a unique path in professional football. Lookman’s rise is also a reflection of the growing talent pool emerging from Africa, where players are increasingly making their mark on the global stage.
As the world awaits the outcome of the Ballon d’Or ceremony on October 28, 2024, in Paris, Lookman’s legacy is already secured. Whether he wins the award or not, his impact on football, particularly for African players, is undeniable. Ademola Lookman has already earned his place among football’s elite, and his star continues to rise.
Reflection
As Lookman continues his footballing journey, he represents the future of African football on the global stage. His Ballon d’Or nomination is more than just recognition of individual excellence; it is a celebration of Africa’s growing influence in the football world. The stars have indeed aligned for Ademola Lookman, and his trajectory promises even greater things to come.
Steve Ogah is the author of The African New Yorker and a UEFA-accredited journalist, Women’s Champions League final, Torino 2022. His short story, “The Protest Outside,” is published in Monalisa No Longer Smiles, an anthology of writings from around the world. (OM Books, India. 2022), https://borderlessjournal.com/our-anthology/ . He is the founder of Afro Narrator, https://afronarrator.substack.com/ , a Substack newsletter. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/steveogah . Twitter: @stevewritings.
