Super Eagles and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has achieved a remarkable milestone, ranking 14th in the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or standings.
The announcement was made Monday evening in Paris by the Ballon d’Or organizers, celebrating the Nigerian international’s impressive accomplishments in European football.
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Lookman, who plays for Atalanta in Italy’s Serie A, received his first-ever nomination for the Ballon d’Or. The 27-year-old forward’s consistent and standout performances throughout the year have earned him global recognition.
His contributions on the field have elevated him among the world’s elite football talents, thanks to his remarkable skills for both club and country.
Lookman has also emerged as the top contender for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, following his historic achievements in the Europa League with Atalanta and his Ballon d’Or nomination.
The Atalanta star made history by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a European club competition final, leading his club to victory over Bayer Leverkusen last season.
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His nomination for the Ballon d’Or solidifies a successful year in which he scored 11 goals and delivered seven assists across 31 Serie A appearances.
Notably, he stands as the only African player to receive a nomination for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, further highlighting his influence in global football.
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In the 2023 Ballon d’Or, Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen finished eighth, surpassing well-known players such as Karim Benzema, Jude Bellingham, Robert Lewandowski, and Mohamed Salah.
Osimhen became the first Nigerian footballer to be nominated in 24 years, a milestone last reached by former Eagles captain Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
Lookman’s recognition at this level adds to the growing legacy of Nigerian talent on the international football stage.
