Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian international forward currently dazzling Serie A with his performances for Atalanta, has emerged as a strong contender for the prestigious 2024 African Player of the Year award. Congolese forward Cedric Bakambu, speaking on the Sporty TV show, expressed his belief that Lookman’s exceptional contributions for both club and country make him a deserving recipient of the accolade. The CAF awards ceremony, scheduled for December 16th in Marrakesh, Morocco, will reveal whether Lookman’s stellar year culminates in this significant individual honor. He faces stiff competition from other notable African talents, including Simon Adingra, Serhou Guirassy, Achraf Hakimi, and Ronwen Williams, all of whom have made significant contributions to their respective teams.
Lookman’s candidacy for the award is underpinned by his consistent and impactful displays throughout the year. His impressive form has not only propelled Atalanta to the upper echelons of the Serie A table but also earned him recognition on the global stage, with a commendable 14th-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings. This achievement underscores his growing influence in the world of football and further solidifies his claim as one of Africa’s brightest stars. Bakambu’s endorsement serves as a testament to the respect Lookman commands within the footballing community and highlights the widespread recognition of his exceptional abilities.
The 27-year-old Nigerian forward has been instrumental in Atalanta’s impressive campaign, contributing significantly with both goals and assists. His eight goals and four assists in twelve league games have been crucial in establishing Atalanta as genuine title contenders, placing them in a fierce battle with Napoli and Inter Milan for Serie A supremacy. Lookman’s ability to consistently deliver in high-stakes matches has been a hallmark of his season, further strengthening his case for the African Player of the Year award.
Beyond his domestic exploits, Lookman etched his name into football history by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a European cup final. This remarkable feat, achieved in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph against an unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen side in May, cemented his status as a big-game player and showcased his ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stages. This historic accomplishment undoubtedly adds significant weight to his candidacy for the prestigious individual award.
Lookman’s consistent brilliance has inevitably attracted the attention of several European footballing giants, including Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Real Madrid. These clubs, renowned for their pursuit of top talent, recognize the immense potential and proven ability of the Nigerian forward. Atalanta, acutely aware of the growing interest in their star player, are keen to secure his long-term future at the club. With his current contract expiring in 2026, the club’s president, Antonio Percassi, has reaffirmed their commitment to retaining Lookman’s services, emphasizing his importance to their future plans. The January transfer window is likely to see increased speculation surrounding his future, as top clubs circle, vying for his signature.
As the 2024 CAF awards draw closer, the anticipation surrounding the African Player of the Year announcement intensifies. Ademola Lookman’s remarkable year, marked by consistent performances, crucial goals, historic achievements, and widespread acclaim, positions him as a leading contender for the coveted award. While the competition remains fierce, with other deserving candidates in the running, Lookman’s impact on the game, both domestically and internationally, makes him a strong favorite. The footballing world awaits with bated breath to see if his exceptional year culminates in the recognition of being crowned Africa’s best. His journey from relative obscurity to the cusp of continental recognition serves as an inspiring testament to his talent, dedication, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. The upcoming award ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion, as Africa celebrates its finest footballing talents.
