'Keep that trophy for him' — AFCON winner backs Ademola Lookman for CAF Player of the Year

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman is the favourite to win the 2024 CAF Player of the Year, after an exceptional season for club and country.

Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has thrown his weight behind Atalanta's Ademola Lookman for the 2024 CAF Men's Player of the Year award.

Onazi, who won the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria in 2013, believes Lookman has shown everything required to win the prestigious award.

Onazi backs Ademola Lookman to win CAF Player of the Year

"Lookman is an exceptional talent," Onazi said in an interview with Brila FM.

Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman || Imago

"His hard work, commitment, and discipline set him apart."

Lookman is among the 10 nominees for this year's award, alongside the likes of Simon Adingra, Edmond Tapsoba, William Trrost-Ekong, and more.

Ademola Lookman with his coveted man of the match award.

The 26-year-old had a stellar year, starring for Nigeria at AFCON 2023, before making history as the first African player to ever score a hat-trick in a European final, when he hit a treble to help Atalanta defeat Bayer Leverkusen.

He also made history as the only African player nominated for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, finishing 14th in the final ranking.

Onazi believes Lookman is the clear favourite to succeed Victor Osimhen as Africa's best player.

"I am thrilled with his achievements and his nomination for the Ballon d'Or, which is a testament to his quality."

"CAF should prepare the trophy for him; it's not just about him being Nigerian, but because he truly is the finest player in Africa right now."