Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has been backed to replace Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as Africa’s next Player of the Year, following an impressive 2024 season that has seen the Nigerian international earn widespread praise for his performances on both domestic and international stages.
Nigerian coach Mathew Olorunleke, who spent his playing career in Italy with clubs such as Reggiana, Messina, and Juve Stabia, believes Lookman is primed to take over Osimhen’s mantle as the continent’s top player.
Speaking to *All Nigeria Soccer*, Olorunleke highlighted Lookman’s stellar contributions to Atalanta and the Nigerian national team, pointing out that his success on the pitch has propelled him into serious contention for the prestigious award.
“Lookman is in form and on fire,” Olorunleke said. “He did well last season in Serie A.
He was also great at the Africa Cup of Nations, and he helped Atalanta win the Europa League.”
Lookman has had a remarkable year, playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and helping Atalanta secure the UEFA Europa League title, a historic achievement for the Italian club.
His strong performances earned him several accolades, including being named Atalanta’s Player of the Season for the 2023/24 campaign.
He was also included in both the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Team of the Tournament and the UEFA Europa League Team of the Season.
Olorunleke emphasized that achieving individual recognition in football is not solely about on-field performance but also about building a personal brand.
“Becoming world player of the year is not just about what you do on the pitch; it also includes the image you create off it,” he said. “When we talk about world footballer of the year, we talk about a brand.
Football is now more than just playing the game.”
Lookman’s rise has been meteoric since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022.
He has been an integral part of Gian Piero Gasperini’s squad, netting 32 goals across all competitions for the Bergamo-based club.
His contributions have helped Atalanta remain competitive in Serie A while making a mark in European competitions.
The 26-year-old winger’s ability to perform in key moments, including his standout displays in the Europa League, has drawn comparisons to some of Africa’s top footballers, including reigning African Player of the Year, Osimhen.
With Lookman now firmly in the spotlight, his continued performances for club and country will be crucial in determining whether he can achieve the coveted title of Africa’s best player.
However, as Olorunleke suggests, Lookman is well-positioned to make that leap, provided he maintains his current trajectory and continues to excel at the highest level of the game.
