Gasperini: Lookman deserves to win Ballon d’Or

Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini believes Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman deserves to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or, SportsRation reports.

Lookman, the only African player on this year’s prestigious 30-man shortlist, earned the nomination after a brilliant season with Atalanta and the Nigerian national team.

The 26-year-old forward was a key player in Nigeria’s impressive run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. His performances also helped Atalanta secure a top-four finish in Serie A, guaranteeing them a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Lookman’s crowning moment came in the Europa League final, where he scored a hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen. This made him the first player in Europa League history to score a hat-trick in a final, delivering Atalanta’s first-ever European trophy.

While stars like Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and Manchester City’s Rodri are considered favourites for the Ballon d’Or, Gasperini insists Lookman’s contributions should not be overlooked.

“If I had a Ballon d’Or vote, I would give it to Ademola Lookman,” Gasperini said in an interview with Sky Sports. “His magic skills helped us win the Europa League.”

Even if Lookman doesn’t win the Ballon d’Or, he remains a strong candidate for the Africa Footballer of the Year award. If successful, he will follow in the footsteps of his national teammate Victor Osimhen, who won the award last year.

Lookman’s outstanding performances this season have not only earned him praise from his coach but also boosted hopes of more honours for both Atalanta and Nigeria.