“It’s an honour” — Ademola Lookman

Ademola Lookman may have been a part of the Super Eagles team that was held hostage on Monday in Libya, but that won’t derail the 2024 calendar year from being a highlight for the Nigerian international.

In a recent interview, Ademola Lookman declared 2024 the pinnacle of his football career after a year filled with remarkable achievements, including his unforgettable UEFA Europa League final performance, where he netted a hat-trick to secure Atalanta’s 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen.

Reflecting on his success, Ademola Lookman described the sensation of wearing gold as “incomparable” and relished the moment he was told by his coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, that he had “become part of football history.”

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But Lookman’s journey in 2024 didn’t stop there. He was Nigeria’s highest goalscorer at the Africa Cup of Nations, cementing his status as one of the continent’s finest talents. His spectacular form has earned him a nomination for the prestigious Ballon d’Or, making him the only African player on the list.

In an interview with France Football, Lookman opened up about his pride in representing Nigeria, a decision that he says was deeply personal despite his youth career with England.

“I decided with my heart to play for the Super Eagles because I have a close and personal connection with this country,” Lookman said, adding that his time with Nigeria has been a journey of understanding his heritage.

As for his Ballon d’Or nomination, Lookman is still in awe.

“It’s cr@zy. And being the only African on the list is even more special. I’m proud of it. It’s an honour, knowing where I come from.”

For Ademola Lookman, 2024 has truly been a career-defining year—one filled with milestones that have solidified his legacy in European and African football alike.