Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Atalanta striker, Ademola Lookman has credited his switch from representing England to playing for the Super Eagles in 2022 as the key to his recent success, both at club and international levels.
Lookman, who was born in London and helped England win the Under-17 World Cup, has blossomed into one of Africa’s top footballers since making the change.
“I think ever since I put on the Super Eagles jersey, it’s been fruitful,” Lookman said during an interview with SportyTV.
“We’ve been able to achieve a lot as a team and we’re still going as a team. But the camaraderie is something that’s very special within the squad.”
“Ever since I joined the Super Eagles, everything has gone upwards for me.”
Lookman’s career took a dramatic turn after his move to the Super Eagles, transforming from a Premier League player struggling to find his form into one of Africa’s most celebrated footballers.
His rise culminated in being named the CAF Men’s Player of the Year on December 16, 2023, becoming the first Nigerian player born outside the country to win the prestigious award.
In less than two years with Nigeria, Lookman has not only made his mark on the international stage but also excelled at club level.
He scored a European record hat-trick for Atalanta in their UEFA Europa Cup victory over favorites Bayer Leverkusen in May, a 3-0 win that stunned the football world.
His impact continued this season, with Lookman netting 12 goals and providing 5 assists in 19 appearances, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier forward.
Lookman’s contributions to Nigeria have been vital, especially in the qualifiers for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored twice in a critical victory.
His performances have echoed the legacy of other diaspora-born players like Osaze Odemwingie and Victor Moses, who brought similar energy to the Super Eagles.
“To me it’s an incredible moment,” Ademola Lookman said of his CAF Awards win.
“An incredible achievement. It’s special to be able to join the list of many great players who have achieved a lot in the game, legends.”
The forward also added that his individual success is part of a larger movement.
“It’s not just me but we have a lot of talent, not just in the men’s game but also in the women’s game, and for us to be able to give motivation to the young kids who want to aspire to be like us is the most important, because if we can set a good example, they have good footsteps to walk into.”
With Lookman’s continued rise, it’s clear that the Super Eagles have found a new star, one whose journey of self-discovery and success has inspired both his team and the next generation of Nigerian footballers.
