Former Nigerian defender Ifeanyi Udeze has hinted that Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi could be named the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, despite Ademola Lookman’s impressive performances for both club and country.
Speaking on Brila FM’s No Holds Barred, Udeze revealed that a reliable source informed him that Hakimi is the frontrunner for the prestigious award, but he questioned the fairness of such a decision.
“My source told me Hakimi is the frontrunner for the award, ahead of Lookman,” Udeze said.
“But that will be cheating if Hakimi wins because Ademola Lookman has shown he’s in top form for both country and club.”
Lookman has had a remarkable year, shining for Nigeria and Atalanta.
He scored three goals and provided one assist during Nigeria’s AFCON campaign, helping the Super Eagles reach the final.
At the club level, Lookman made history with a stunning hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, leading Atalanta to victory over Bayer Leverkusen, who were unbeaten in 51 matches prior.
The 26-year-old ended the 2023/24 season with 17 goals and 10 assists in all competitions. So far this season, Lookman has continued his blazing form with 10 goals and five assists.
Hakimi’s Case
Hakimi, on the other hand, has been solid for both Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco. The defender recorded five goals and seven assists last season, adding three goals and four assists so far in the current campaign.
“CAF Must Be Transparent” – Ikpe Ekong
Joining Udeze on the show former Nigerian international Prince Ikpe Ekong also weighed in on the debate, arguing that Lookman deserves more recognition.
“Ademola Lookman is grossly underrated, even in Nigeria,” Ikpe stated. “If Lookman doesn’t win, CAF should be questioned because he has single-handedly delivered for both his club and the national team.”
Ikpe emphasized the importance of CAF recognizing outstanding individual achievements over popularity, adding that Lookman’s contributions to Atalanta’s Europa League triumph and Nigeria’s AFCON success make him the standout player.
The Debate Continues
With Lookman’s extraordinary season and Hakimi’s consistent performances, the race for CAF Men’s Player of the Year promises to be a closely contested one. However, fans and pundits alike will be eager to see if CAF’s decision aligns with performances on the pitch.
