Former Nigerian winger, Emmanuel Amuneke has shown strong support for Super Eagles player Ademola Lookman, tipping him as a future contender for the CAF Player of the Year award.

Amuneke believes that Lookman has the potential to follow in Victor Osimhen’s footsteps and become Africa’s best footballer.

Osimhen, who won the award last year after his role in Napoli’s historic Serie A title win, is currently Africa’s top footballer.

Amuneke, a former Barcelona winger is also a past winner of the CAF Player of the Year award.

The 26 year-old Lookman played a crucial role for Nigeria in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign, scoring three goals and providing an assist.

He also broke records in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League success, scoring an hat-trick in the final against unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen.

These performances earned him a spot on the 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist, making him the only African player nominated this year.

Amuneke believes Ademola Lookman is next in line for the award.

“He’s in line to be crowned CAF Player of the Year if he continues the way he is doing.”

“I watched the last game against Rwanda, and his performance was outstanding. It shows that he has been able to consolidate himself with African football.”

“When I won it, I think Ikpeba won it again, and then Kanu. If a Nigerian wins it next, it is definitely a joyous one.”

“We need to continue to support our players, both in Europe and in our local leagues. We all need one another to form the ecological system that governs our football, for our football to strive.”

Lookman is expected to face tough competition from Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface and Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz for the top African football award.