In an official announcement at the CAF Awards 2024, Africa’s men’s player of the year was confirmed to millions of football fans on the continent.
In a dazzling ceremony at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco, on December 16, 2024, Nigerian forward, Ademola Lookman was crowned the CAF African Men’s Player of the Year.
This prestigious accolade recognizes Lookman’s unforgettable and exceptional performance for both his club and country for the year 2024.
Ademola Lookman had an outstanding year in 2024, showcasing his talent and versatility both at the club and international levels. His contributions to Nigeria’s success in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire were remarkable, as he scored three goals and provided two assists, playing a crucial role in the team’s journey to the final.
At the club level, Lookman’s heroics in the UEFA Europa League were nothing short of spectacular. He delivered a memorable hat-trick in the final, leading Atalanta FC to a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen and securing the prestigious UEFA Europa Cup title in May. This achievement marked a historic moment for both Lookman and the club.
Throughout the 2023/24 season, Lookman maintained exceptional form for Atalanta, recording 11 goals and five assists in 18 appearances. His impressive performances included a vital goal against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, further cementing his reputation as a top-tier player.
On the international stage, Lookman also made a significant impact during Nigeria’s AFCON qualification campaign, scoring two crucial goals to help the Super Eagles secure their spot in the tournament.
Lookman’s achievements did not go unnoticed, as he made history by becoming the first Atalanta player ever to receive a Ballon d’Or nomination. In September 2024, he finished 14th in the rankings, a testament to his exceptional performances throughout the year.
For his contributions, Lookman was rightfully recognised as Atalanta’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2023/24 season. Across all competitions, he recorded 17 goals and 10 assists, further solidifying his status as a key player for the Italian club. Winning the UEFA Europa Cup and earning individual accolades capped off a truly remarkable year for the Nigerian forward.
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