Serie A star, Ademola Lookman has described the year 2024 as the best of his career, after inspiring
Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League final win against Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen in May with a historic hat-trick in La Dea’s 3-0 victory.
He also became Nigeria’s top goalscorer at the 2024 Nations Cup and at 26 years old, Lookman is among the nominees for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.
He shared his sentiments with France Football, saying, “The feeling of winning and being hoisted on the trophy is an unparalleled sensation. And creating history in a modest city like Bergamo is truly remarkable. I was deeply moved to learn from Gian Piero Gasperini a few days later that I had made history. It’s a honor, but it’s also a testament to my hard work.
On playing for Nigeria, he continued: “I have learned to understand it over time. Even though I played for England in the youth teams, winning the U20 World Cup in 2017, I decided with my heart to play for the Super Eagles because I have a close and personal connection with this country.”
And on the Ballon d’Or, Lookman added: “It’s crazy. 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.”
