Ademola Lookman’s meteoric rise in Italian football has culminated in him being crowned the highest-rated player in Serie A for the 2022-2023 season, a remarkable achievement considering the league’s star-studded roster. The Nigerian forward, playing for Atalanta, has consistently outperformed expectations, surpassing established names like Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram, as well as other prominent players from powerhouse clubs such as Juventus, AC Milan, and AS Roma. Lookman’s dominance is reflected in his impressive WhoScored rating of 7.37, a testament to his impactful performances throughout the season. This accomplishment underscores not only his individual brilliance but also his significant contribution to Atalanta’s success.
Lookman’s statistical dominance further highlights his remarkable season. Despite participating in only 23 games, he has managed to register 13 goals and provide five assists, demonstrating his effectiveness in front of goal and his ability to create opportunities for his teammates. His average of 2.1 key passes per game, the highest in the league, showcases his creative prowess and underlines his importance to Atalanta’s attacking fluidity. This combination of goalscoring and playmaking ability has set Lookman apart, solidifying his position as one of Serie A’s most dangerous attacking threats. His efficiency and impact per game are particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his ability to make the most of his time on the pitch.
While Lookman sits atop the rankings, the competition for top performer in Serie A has been fierce. Inter Milan’s in-form duo, Thuram and Martínez, trail closely behind with ratings of 7.29 and 7.22 respectively. Thuram, with 13 goals and four assists, has been instrumental in Inter’s success, while Martínez, sharing the third spot with Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui, the league’s top scorer with 22 goals, has also demonstrated his consistent goal-scoring prowess. The presence of other highly-rated players like Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Nico Paz, Mattia Zaccagni, Alexis Saelemaekers, Rafael Leão, and Moise Kean within the top ten further emphasizes the depth of talent in Serie A and highlights the significance of Lookman’s achievement in rising above such a competitive field.
Lookman’s journey to the pinnacle of Serie A began with his transfer from RB Leipzig to Atalanta in August 2022. Since then, he has become a cornerstone of the Atalanta attack, showcasing his versatility and consistency across multiple competitions. His impressive record of 37 goals and 18 assists in 85 league appearances speaks volumes about his adaptability and impact on Italian football. He has not only excelled individually but has also contributed significantly to Atalanta’s collective achievements, playing a key role in their journey to the Coppa Italia final and their historic triumph in the UEFA Europa League, the club’s first European title.
Lookman’s success extends beyond the club level. His performances for the Nigerian national team have been equally impressive, culminating in a pivotal role in their run to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final. His contributions on the international stage earned him the prestigious CAF African Player of the Year award, a testament to his growing influence and recognition as one of Africa’s brightest talents. This accolade marks him as the sixth Nigerian to receive the honor, further cementing his legacy within Nigerian football history. Furthermore, his achievement is particularly remarkable considering his switch from England to Nigeria, making him the first player to win the award after changing national allegiances.
Ademola Lookman’s journey from relative unknown to Serie A’s top-rated player exemplifies his dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His impact on Atalanta, both domestically and in European competitions, has been profound. His success with the Nigerian national team, culminating in the CAF African Player of the Year award, further underscores his remarkable rise. Lookman’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and the realization of immense potential, solidifying his status as a rising star in world football and a source of inspiration for aspiring footballers across the globe. His journey serves as a testament to the power of hard work, talent, and the pursuit of excellence.
