Ademola Lookman leaned back in his chair at the pre-CAF Awards media briefing, the Palais des Congrès a symphony of flashing cameras and excited chatter.
For the Atalanta forward, the night represented more than personal recognition—it was a culmination of resilience, ambition, and hard work.
“My journey has been about making every moment count,” Lookman said, reflecting on a year that saw him ascend to incredible heights. The 27-year-old had turned heads in Italy, guiding Atalanta to a UEFA Europa League triumph, breaking a 61-year title drought for the club. His hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen wasn’t just a performance; it was a masterclass.
But beyond the accolades in Europe, his proudest moments came in the green of Nigeria. The heartbreak of losing the Africa Cup of Nations final to Côte d’Ivoire still stung, but his three goals and dazzling performances were etched into the tournament’s narrative. He was a leader, a game-changer, a talisman.
“There’s a responsibility that comes with wearing the Super Eagles jersey,” Lookman said. “It’s about inspiring the next generation and showing that dreams can be achieved.”
Lookman wasn’t alone in this journey. Across the continent, four other players had blazed their own trails, making the shortlist one of the tightest races in CAF history:
Simon Adingra (Côte d’Ivoire): The Brighton winger whose crucial contributions led his nation to the 2023 AFCON title on home soil.
Serhou Guirassy (Guinea): A prolific forward whose Bundesliga exploits and international heroics made him one of Africa’s finest strikers.
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco): The consistent and dynamic PSG right-back who combined club and international success with leadership.
Ronwen Williams (South Africa): The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper whose penalty-saving heroics and defensive mastery brought pride to Bafana Bafana.
As the CAF Men’s Player of the Year shortlist loomed large, Lookman remained grounded. These were players he respected deeply, each representing the spirit of African football.
“For me, it’s not just about tonight,” he said, a calm confidence in his voice. “It’s about everything this represents—the passion of the fans, the sweat on the training ground, the moments that define careers.”
As the clock ticked toward the ceremony, Lookman adjusted his bowtie in the mirror. This was his stage, his chance to cement a legacy as one of Africa’s finest. Whether or not his name was called, he knew his journey was far from over.
