Super Eagles sensation Ademola Lookman is basking in glory, and rightly so! In a heartfelt interview with ARISE TV, the newly crowned 2024 CAF African Footballer of the Year opened up about how switching his international allegiance from England to Nigeria became one of the most defining moves of his career.
“Without a doubt, it changed my career and my life,” Lookman shared. “This is my home. This is my place. I enjoy it here. I am the son of the soil.”
Born in London and once part of England’s youth setup, Lookman made the bold decision to represent Nigeria and the results have been nothing short of magical. From rising through the ranks to becoming one of Europe’s most feared forwards, his recent Europa League final hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen sealed Atalanta’s first-ever European title and wrote his name in football history.
He credits his rise to discipline, daily hard work, and self-belief. Even during tough times, like his loan spell at Fulham, where he missed a crucial penalty, Lookman stayed mentally sharp. “Every day, I try to improve myself, both on and off the pitch. That mindset has really helped me,” he revealed.
Winning African Footballer of the Year was more than an accolade — it was a personal triumph. “It’s a privilege. I take it with real pride,” Lookman said, adding that presenting the award to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu during his visit to Lagos made it even more special. He also visited Phase 2, where he lived with his father and grandmother.
As for retirement? That’s not even on his radar. “Definitely not. There’s still a long journey ahead. This is just another chapter.”
With Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United all reportedly circling, and Atalanta slapping a €50 million price tag on their star, Lookman’s value is soaring — and this is only the beginning.