2023/24 UEFA Europa League (UEL) final hero, Ademola Lookman, has described representing the Super Eagles of Nigeria as a blessing and privilege.
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Lookman initially represented England at the youth levels before switching allegiance to Nigeria in 2022.
“For us as players it’s a blessing to be able to represent our country and to bring the happiness back to them, and also to the kids looking up to us,” Lookman told Athletic Football.
Since making his debut for the Super Eagles in a World Cup qualifier against Ghana on March 25, 2022, Lookman has scored six goals and provided four assists across 23 appearances for the West African giants. The 26-year-old was also one of the standout players at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), earning a spot in the Team of the Tournament after scoring three goals and helping Nigeria to a second-place finish.
“I don’t think people in Europe realise how much Africa loves football and Africa breathes football,” he added.
Lookman is a strong contender for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award after scoring a hat-trick for Atalanta in the UEL final against Bayer Leverkusen at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on May 22.
“I would be very honoured and blessed. To be considered a contender is heartwarming to me,” the 26-year-old said of his chances.
The UEL final was a historic night for Lookman, as he became the first player to score a hat-trick in a UEFA competition final since 1975. His goals ended Leverkusen’s 51-game unbeaten streak, as Atalanta edged out a Die Werkself side featuring Lookman’s compatriot Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella.
The Eagles winger could further solidify his chances of succeeding Victor Osimhen as CAF POTY if Atalanta wins the UEFA Super Cup against Champions League winners Real Madrid in Poland on Wednesday, July 14.
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