Ademola Lookman Wins African Player of the Year
Lookman Crowned Africa’s Best, Leading Atalanta to Continental Glory
Marrakesh, Morocco – nigerian striker Ademola Lookman has been named Africa’s best player for 2024, capping off a remarkable season with italian club Atalanta. The award ceremony, held in Marrakesh on Monday, saw lookman beat out a strong field of contenders, including Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi and Guinean striker Serho Guerassi.
Lookman’s stellar performance propelled Atalanta to their first European Football League title in 61 years. His three hat-tricks in the final against Bayer Leverkusen proved decisive, handing the german side their only defeat of the season after an unbeaten domestic league and cup double.
“it’s an unbelievable honor to receive this award,” lookman said. “I’m incredibly grateful to my teammates, coaches, and the fans for their support throughout the season. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without them.”
The Nigerian striker’s triumph marks the second consecutive year that a nigerian player has claimed Africa’s top prize. Last year, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, currently on loan to Turkish club Galatasaray, was awarded the Golden ball.
Lookman joins an elite group of Nigerian footballers who have been crowned Africa’s best,including legends like Rashidi Yekini,Victor Ikpeba,Nwankwo Kanu,and Emmanuel Amunike. His victory solidifies his place among the continent’s brightest stars and promises a shining future for both club and country.
Ademola Lookman: AfricaS Crown Jewel Shining Luminous
NewsDirectory3.com Exclusive Interview
Following his historic triumph as Africa’s best player for 2024, NewsDirectory3.com sat down with Ademola Lookman to discuss his remarkable season with Atalanta and the significance of this prestigious award.
NewsDirectory3.com: Ademola, congratulations on this incredible achievement. What does it meen to you to be named Africa’s best player?
Lookman: it’s an unbelievable honor. I’m incredibly grateful to my teammates, coaches, and the fans for their support throughout the season. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without them.
NewsDirectory3.com: Your performances in the European Football League final were nothing short of sensational. Three hat-tricks against a formidable Bayer Leverkusen side – that’s something truly special. How did it feel to deliver on the biggest stage?
Lookman: It was an incredible feeling. We worked so hard all season, and to see it all culminate in such a historic victory was truly amazing.
NewsDirectory3.com: Atalanta hadn’t clinched a European title in 61 years. How does it feel to be a part of this history-making team?
Lookman: It’s an honour to be part of this club and to contribute to its success.To break that long drought and bring the trophy back to Bergamo is something we’ll cherish forever.
NewsDirectory3.com: You’re following in the footsteps of some legendary Nigerian footballers who have won this award. What does it mean to you to join that esteemed group?
Lookman: it’s truly humbling. Those players are inspirations to me, and to be mentioned in the same breath as them is an incredible honour.
NewsDirectory3.com: What are your aspirations for the future? Both for yourself and for nigerian football?
Lookman: My goal is to continue improving and reach even greater heights.
I want to help Atalanta achieve more success in europe, and I also want to contribute to the growth of Nigerian football on the international stage.
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you for your time, Ademola. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Lookman: Thank you.