Super Eagles and Atalanta forward, Ademola Lookman has been crowned CAF Player of the Year for 2024.
The 27-year-old forward succeeds compatriot Victor Osimhen, ensuring Nigeria retains the continent’s most prestigious individual accolade for the first time since 1994.
Lookman becomes the sixth Nigerian to win the award, following in the footsteps of legends like Rashidi Yekini (1993), Emmanuel Amuneke (1994), Victor Ikpeba (1997), Nwankwo Kanu (1996, 1999) and teammate Victor Osimhen (2023).
It also marks the seventh time the award has been won by a Nigerian player, with Kanu having claimed the honour twice.
Lookman: A stellar year for club and country
Lookman’s triumph comes after an extraordinary year for both Atalanta and Nigeria. His most significant contribution came in the UEFA Europa League final, where his hattrick secured Atalanta’s first-ever European title.
He followed that up with an impressive start to the ongoing Serie A and UEFA Champions League campaign, becoming one of Europe’s top performers.
On the international stage, the former Everton youngster was equally sensational. Lookman played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, contributing three goals and an assist during the tournament.
His efforts also earned him recognition on the global stage, with a top-14 finish in the Ballon d’Or rankings and a nomination for the Globe Soccer Awards.
Dusting stiff competition
Achraf Hakimi, the closest contender, had an impressive year with Paris Saint-Germain, winning Ligue 1 and reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
The Moroccan defender also helped his country achieve a historic bronze medal at the Olympics. However, his performances paled in comparison to Lookman’s all-around brilliance.
Lookman concluded the 2023/24 season with a remarkable 33-goal contribution across all competitions for club and country.
This all-encompassing impact proved decisive in edging out fellow nominees Simon Adingra, Serhou Guirassy, and Ronwen Williams to claim Africa’s top football honour.
