Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has emerged as the leading contender for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, following his historic achievements in the Europa League with Atalanta and his nomination for the Ballon d’Or.
The Atalanta star made headlines by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a European club competition final, leading his team to victory over Bayer Leverkusen last season. Since CAF announced the ten nominees on Thursday night, Lookman has received widespread support from fans on social media.
“Being the first player in history to score three goals in a European final makes Ademola Lookman a favourite among football fans worldwide for the African Player of the Year award,” wrote Bala_The_Game_Changer on X.
The 27-year-old’s nomination is no surprise, following an outstanding season where he scored 11 goals and provided seven assists in 31 Serie A matches for Atalanta. Lookman is also the only African player shortlisted for the 2024 Ballon d’Or. “I thought it was crazy when I saw my name among the 30 candidates for the Ballon d’Or. Being the only African on the list makes it even more special,” Lookman told France Football recently.
Some fans believe the award should be given to him without hesitation, with @jujupunte stating, “All these are not necessary. They’re supposed to take the award straight to Lookman in his sitting room.” The Nigerian international faces competition from compatriot William Troost-Ekong and eight other nominees, including Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Algeria’s Amine Gouiri. “This award is undisputed for Ademola Lookman… Even the other nine know this,” wrote Maximus Dex on X.
However, the exclusion of in-form striker Victor Boniface and reigning holder Victor Osimhen from the shortlist has sparked debates among fans.
“Must be a joke. How did Boniface not make this list? Ademola Lookman will win, though, but Boniface has to be on the list. What is the criteria?” questioned MSN on X.
The winner will be announced at the upcoming 2024 CAF Awards, where Lookman aims to succeed Osimhen as Africa’s top player.
