Ademola Lookman expressed immense delight over his stellar performance in Wednesday night’s Europa League final, calling it one of the best moments of his career.

The forward scored a hat trick to propel Atalanta to a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, ending the club’s 116-year wait for a European trophy.

Lookman’s remarkable feat ensured Atalanta’s historic triumph and solidified his place in the annals of the club’s achievements.

Immediately after the final whistle Lookman told TNT Sports “it’s one of the best nights of my life”. Perhaps understated.

Ademola Lookman poses for a photograph with the Match Ball after scoring a hat-trick and the Player of the Match award after defeating Bayer 04 Leverkusen during the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 final match. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

A Dublin party was “100%” planned, he added. “We’ve got to celebrate, we made history tonight.”

Lookman has consistently impressed during his tenure at the Bergamo club, hitting double figures in goals in both seasons.

“The past few years, the club and coach have supported me in terms of giving me minutes. it’s helped me elevate my game to a new level,” he added.

“Probably, yeah,” he replied. “I’ve always had the confidence in my ability.

“In the past two years I’ve been able to take my game to a new level and show it on a more consistent basis.

“Maybe it could have come earlier but it’s come now. I’m pleased with the progress I’ve made but this is just the beginning. I hope for more nights like this.”

Lookman who is the first player to score hat-trick in Europa League final history has fifteen goals for Atalanta across all competitions this season.