Nigerian football sensation, Ademola Lookman, has been named in the prestigious African Team of the Season by French broadcaster, Canal+ Sports. This recognition comes after a stellar 2023/24 season that saw Lookman lead Italian club Atalanta to its first trophy in 61 years.
Lookman was instrumental in Atalanta’s triumphant Europa League campaign, scoring a hat-trick in the final against newly-crowned German Bundesliga champion, Bayer Leverkusen. This victory not only marked a historic moment for Atalanta but also ended Lookman’s personal quest for his first club-level trophy.
The 26-year-old forward continued his impressive form into the final day of the Italian Serie A season, scoring a goal as Atalanta thrashed Torino 3-0 at the Gewiss Stadium. His performances have caught the eye of pundits and fans alike, earning him a spot in the African Team of the Season.
Despite Nigeria finishing second in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, Lookman’s individual performance was a silver lining. Making his AFCON debut, he emerged as the Super Eagles’ top scorer at the tournament with three goals. His brace against the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in the round of 16 and the winning goal against Angola’s Palancas Negras in the quarterfinals were particularly memorable.
The African Team of the Season, as selected by Canal+ Sports, includes other notable African talents such as Ronwen Williams, Tapsoba, Kossounou, Chancel Mbemba; Achraf Hakimi, Pape Matar Sarr, Mohammed Kudus, Wilfried Singo; Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Serhou Guirassy, and of course, Ademola Lookman.
As Lookman continues to make waves in international football, his inclusion in the African Team of the Season is a testament to his talent and hard work. Fans will be eagerly anticipating his next move as he continues to build on this successful season.