Ademola Lookman has been named the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, solidifying his place among Africa’s football greats. The 27-year-old Nigerian forward, who stars for Atalanta in Italy, received the prestigious accolade at a glittering ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco.
Lookman’s stellar year featured outstanding performances at both club and international levels. At the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in February, he scored three goals and delivered two assists, propelling Nigeria to the final, where they narrowly lost to Côte d’Ivoire.
On the club front, Ademola Lookman was instrumental in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League success, netting a historic hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. His overall season stats include 11 goals and five assists in just 18 appearances, including a memorable strike against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.
Lookman edged out top contenders Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Simon Adingra (Côte d’Ivoire), Serhou Guirassy (Guinea), and Ronwen Williams (South Africa) to clinch the award, thanks to his consistent impact and unmatched contributions throughout the year.
This triumph adds another chapter to Nigeria’s illustrious history in African football. Lookman joins a prestigious list of compatriots who have won the award, including Victor Osimhen (2023), Nwankwo Kanu, Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, and Victor Ikpeba.
