Ademola Lookman has been named the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, cementing his place as one of Africa’s top players.
The 27-year-old Nigerian forward, who plays for Atalanta in Italy, received recognition for his great achievements with both his club and the Super Eagles.
Lookman’s consistency during the year under review made him the obvious pick for the top honor, which was presented at the CAF Awards ceremony in Marrakech.
He scored three goals and gave two assists at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in February of this year, helping Nigeria get to the final. Although the Super Eagles were defeated by Côte d’Ivoire in a close match.
Ademola Lookman played the 2023 AFCON final in Cote d’Ivoire.
At club level, he was just as impressive. He was instrumental in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League victory, scoring a spectacular hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.
His performance across all competitions has been outstanding, with 11 goals and five assists in just 18 outings. He also had a stunning goal against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.
Lookman defeated other nominations including Achraf Hakimi of Morocco, Simon Adingra of Côte d’Ivoire, Serhou Guirassy of Guinea, and Ronwen Williams of South Africa. However, no one matched Lookman’s effect this year.
Lookman’s victory extends Nigeria’s long tradition in African football. He follows in the footsteps of Victor Osimhen, who received the honor in 2023, as well as other Nigerian icons such as Nwankwo Kanu, Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, and Victor Ikpeba.