Ademola Lookman’s 2024/25 season has been nothing short of extraordinary, a mesmerizing display of footballing artistry that has propelled Atalanta to the summit of Serie A and solidified his position as one of the world’s most exciting talents. His performances, punctuated by seven Man of the Match awards across all competitions, have been a masterclass in attacking prowess, combining goalscoring finesse with creative brilliance. From crucial league victories to captivating Champions League nights, Lookman’s impact has been consistently profound, leaving an indelible mark on every game he’s graced.
Lookman’s season began with a statement of intent. After missing the initial league matches due to transfer speculation, he returned with a bang against Fiorentina, orchestrating a 3-2 victory with an assist and a spectacular winning goal. His performance was a microcosm of his season – impactful, decisive, and breathtaking. He followed this with a dominant display in the Champions League, leading Atalanta to a convincing 3-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk with a goal and an assist. This victory marked Atalanta’s first away Champions League win in five matches, underscoring Lookman’s ability to elevate his team’s performance on the biggest stages.
His match against Hellas Verona was perhaps the most comprehensive illustration of his talent. Lookman delivered a mesmerizing 45-minute performance, racking up two goals and two assists in a 6-1 rout. This quadruple-threat display was a first in his professional career, a testament to his evolving skillset and his ability to single-handedly dismantle opposition defenses. The performance resonated throughout the league, further cementing his reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Lookman’s brilliance continued to shine in crucial encounters. Against title rivals Napoli, he produced a stunning brace in a 3-0 triumph, showcasing both his predatory instincts and his ability to conjure moments of magic. His first goal, a volley from a tight angle, demonstrated his opportunistic nature, while his second, a curling effort from outside the box, epitomized his technical mastery. This performance underlined his big-game mentality, proving that he could deliver when it mattered most.
The Nigerian forward’s knack for decisive interventions continued against AC Milan. Despite being denied twice by brilliant saves from Mike Maignan, Lookman’s persistence paid off with a dramatic late winner, securing a crucial 2-1 victory and extending Atalanta’s winning streak to nine games. This goal, his tenth in just 16 appearances, not only showcased his resilience but also his ability to influence the outcome of tightly contested matches.
Even in defeat, Lookman’s brilliance shone through. Against European giants Real Madrid, he scored a superb goal, earning the UEFA Man of the Match award despite Atalanta’s narrow 3-2 loss. His performance against such illustrious opposition further solidified his growing stature on the European stage. The goal itself, a perfectly placed curler that wrong-footed Thibaut Courtois, showcased his technical prowess and his ability to perform against the very best.
Lookman’s final performance of 2024, against Lazio, highlighted his creative genius. While Atalanta’s 11-match Serie A winning streak came to an end with a 1-1 draw, Lookman remained influential, providing a late assist to secure a point for his team. This performance, even without a goal, demonstrated his all-around contribution to the team and his ability to create opportunities for his teammates.
These seven standout performances underscore Lookman’s remarkable journey since joining Atalanta in 2022. Now with over 100 appearances for the club, his consistent excellence has garnered individual accolades, including the 2024 CAF African Footballer of the Year award and a 14th-place finish in the Ballon d’Or rankings. His contributions have also been instrumental in Atalanta’s team success, including their Europa League triumph in May, where his hat-trick secured the trophy.
Lookman’s journey to becoming one of the world’s most sought-after players has been marked by perseverance, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His early career saw him navigating various loan spells, honing his skills and adapting to different playing styles. This period of development proved crucial in shaping his versatility and resilience, qualities that have become hallmarks of his game.
His arrival at Atalanta marked a turning point in his career. He quickly established himself as a key player, his dynamic performances becoming a catalyst for the team’s success. His ability to cut inside from the wing, his clinical finishing, and his growing vision for creating chances have made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His impact on Atalanta’s attacking play has been transformative, injecting a new level of creativity and potency.
Lookman’s individual brilliance is complemented by his selfless teamwork. He consistently looks to involve his teammates, creating opportunities and contributing to the overall fluidity of Atalanta’s attack. His work rate and defensive contributions also demonstrate his commitment to the team’s collective success. This blend of individual talent and team-oriented play makes him an invaluable asset to Atalanta.
As Atalanta continue their pursuit of a historic first Serie A title, Ademola Lookman’s ability to deliver match-winning performances in crucial moments will undoubtedly be pivotal. His form throughout the season has been nothing short of sensational, and if he can maintain this level of performance, he will undoubtedly play a central role in determining Atalanta’s destiny. His journey from a promising youngster to a bona fide star is a testament to his talent, hard work, and unwavering determination. With his career trajectory continuing its upward trend, the footballing world eagerly anticipates what further heights he will reach.
