Super Eagles and Atalanta star, Ademola Lookman has been named among the final five nominees for the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year.
CAF unveiled the shortlist on Monday, with Lookman joining an elite group that includes Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast), Ronwen Williams (South Africa), and Serhou Guirassy (Guinea).
The recognition follows a sensational 2023/24 campaign for Lookman with Atalanta and the Nigerian national team.
A stellar season for Lookman
For Atalanta, Lookman was a revelation, netting 17 goals and delivering 11 assists across all competitions. His crowning achievement came in the Europa League final, where he scored a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, securing Atalanta’s historic first European title.
On the international stage, Lookman played a pivotal role at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, where he scored three goals and helped the Super Eagles to a silver medal.
His performances earned him a spot in the tournament’s Best XI alongside compatriot William Troost-Ekong.
Lookman’s influence extended beyond African football, as he became the only African player in the top 30 of the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, finishing 14th overall.
Nigerian representation at the CAF Awards
The Super Eagles are also in contention for National Team of the Year, reflecting their collective efforts during a challenging year.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has also been shortlisted for Goalkeeper of the Year.
The CAF Awards ceremony, set for next month in Morocco, could see Lookman join Victor Osimhen as back-to-back Nigerian winners of the prestigious Player of the Year honor.
