Ademola Lookman, a forward for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, is widely expected to win the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award after his standout performances in the Europa League with Atalanta and his Ballon d’Or nomination, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
As the first player to score a hat-trick in a European club final during Atalanta’s victory over Bayer Leverkusen last season, Lookman has been receiving overwhelming support on social media since CAF revealed its list of ten nominees on Thursday night.
“Being the first to score three goals in a European final puts Ademola Lookman in the spotlight as a favorite for African Player of the Year,” wrote Bala_The_Game_Changer on X.
At 27, Lookman’s nomination isn’t a surprise after a stellar year where he netted 11 goals and assisted seven in 31 Serie A games for Atalanta. He’s also the only African on the 2024 Ballon d’Or list.
“When I saw my name among the 30 Ballon d’Or candidates, I was stunned. Being the only African nominee makes it even more special,” Lookman shared with France Football.
Many fans feel he should get the award easily, with @jujupunte commenting, “They should just take the award straight to Lookman’s house.”
Lookman is up against fellow Nigerian William Troost-Ekong and eight other contenders, including Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Algeria’s Amine Gouiri.
“This award clearly belongs to Ademola Lookman… Even the other nine nominees know this,” Maximus Dex posted on X.
However, fans are discussing the absence of in-form players like Victor Boniface and the current titleholder Victor Osimhen from the shortlist.
“How is Boniface not on this list? Lookman will win, but Boniface deserves a spot. What’s the selection process?” MSN questioned on X.
The CAF Awards 2024 will soon reveal the winner, and Lookman is aiming to succeed Osimhen as Africa’s top football player.
