Ademola Lookman Favored For 2024 CAF Player Of The Year Award

Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman has become the leading contender for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award after an exceptional season with Atalanta, capped by his historic Europa League hat-trick and a Ballon d’Or nomination.

The Atalanta forward made headlines as the first player to net a hat-trick in a European competition final, securing victory over Bayer Leverkusen. Fans have shown overwhelming support online since CAF released the list of ten nominees on Thursday.

With an impressive 11 goals and seven assists in 31 Serie A games, Lookman also stands out as the only African player nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or. Reflecting on his inclusion, Lookman told France Football, “Seeing my name among the 30 Ballon d’Or candidates was unbelievable, and to be the only African makes it even more meaningful.”

Some fans insist Lookman deserves the award outright. “Just take the award to Lookman’s living room,” one supporter quipped on social media.

In addition to Lookman, the shortlist includes his compatriot William Troost-Ekong, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, and Algeria’s Amine Gouiri. However, notable exclusions, such as prolific scorers Victor Boniface and last year’s winner Victor Osimhen, have sparked debate among fans.

The winner will be announced at the upcoming CAF Awards 2024, where Lookman aims to succeed Osimhen as Africa’s best footballer.