The 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings have placed Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman at 14th, marking his first entry in the prestigious award’s list. Despite his exceptional season with Atalanta Bergamo, the Super Eagles winger finished outside the top 10, marking the first time since 2017 that no African player has made it into the top 10 of the Ballon d’Or. Last year, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen reached the top 10, finishing 8th.
Lookman, who joined Atalanta last season, quickly established himself as one of Serie A’s most dynamic forwards.
With 17 goals and 8 assists across 45 games in the 2022-23 season, the Nigerian international showcased his finishing and playmaking skills.
In the current campaign, Lookman has continued his impressive form, already netting 5 goals and providing 5 assists in just 10 appearances.
Reflecting on Lookman’s journey, his 14th-place finish underscores both his individual achievements and the increasing global recognition of African football talent.
Ranked at the 14th place for the 2024 Men’s Ballon d’Or! @Alookman_ @Atalanta_BC @thenff #ballondor pic.twitter.com/G1cXMd1jT8
— Ballon d’Or (@ballondor) October 28, 2024
Though an African player did not make it into the top 10 this year, Lookman’s ranking highlights the respect he has garnered in European football, especially within Italy’s Serie A, where he has thrived under Atalanta’s system.
The last African player to rank in the top 10 before Osimhen was Sadio Mané, who finished second in 2019.
Atalanta acquired Lookman in a move that has proven invaluable for both the player and the club.
Valued at approximately €40 million by Transfermarkt, Lookman has shown consistent growth and contributed decisively in key matches, turning heads across Europe.
His current contract with the Italian side runs through June 2026, with the Nigerian international earning a reported annual salary of €2.31 million.
Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has praised Lookman’s work ethic and adaptability, qualities that have made him a focal point in the team’s attack.
This weekend, Lookman and his Atalanta teammates will face AC Monza in Serie A, a fixture that promises to be a high-stakes encounter for the Italian side as they seek to maintain a strong league position.
Aucun joueur africain n’est classé dans le Top 10 du ballon d’or 2024. Une première depuis l’édition 2017. #BallonDor
— Stats Foot (@Statsdufoot) October 28, 2024
With an eye on further honors, Lookman is also among the nominees for the upcoming CAF Awards, where his contributions for both club and country will be evaluated on the continental stage.
His 2024 Ballon d’Or nomination is a milestone in his career and a testament to his rising prominence.
For Lookman, this year’s recognition sets the stage for a continued ascent in European football and keeps the spotlight on African players pushing the boundaries in top leagues.
As African football fans await the announcement of the Ballon d’Or winner, Lookman’s accomplishments serve as a reminder of the continent’s depth of talent.
Although missing a top 10 spot this year, players like Lookman and Osimhen have set the standard high for future African contenders aiming for football’s highest individual honor.
