Nigerian striker Ademola Lookman has credited his decision to switch national allegiances from England to Nigeria in 2022 as the turning point in his football career. The Atalanta forward, born in London and once a part of England’s U-17 team that won the World Cup, acknowledged that his choice to represent the Super Eagles has propelled him to greater heights.
Since donning the green and white jersey, Lookman’s career has seen a dramatic turnaround. In a recent interview with SportyTV, he shared how the camaraderie within the Nigerian squad has played a vital role in his success.
“Ever since I put on the Super Eagles jersey, it’s been fruitful,” Lookman said. “We’ve been able to achieve a lot as a team and we’re still going strong. The camaraderie is something that’s very special within the squad.”
The striker, who made his Super Eagles debut in 2022 during a World Cup qualifying match against Ghana, has seen his form soar since making the switch. His victory at the CAF Men’s Player of the Year award on December 16 was a crowning achievement, marking him as the first Nigerian born outside the country to win Africa’s prestigious football honor.
Lookman’s remarkable rise continued at club level, where he scored a European record hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Europa League final, helping his side claim the title in May. This season, he has continued his blistering form, netting 12 goals and providing five assists in 19 appearances across all competitions.
His contributions have been equally crucial for Nigeria, scoring twice in the qualifiers for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations, and providing three goals and two assists in the lead-up to Nigeria’s eighth AFCON final appearance in Côte d’Ivoire next February.
Reflecting on his CAF Award win, Lookman expressed gratitude for the recognition, recognizing that his achievement was not just a personal triumph but also an inspiration for future generations. “It’s an incredible achievement,” Lookman said. “It’s special to be able to join the list of many great players who have achieved a lot in the game.”
He also emphasized the importance of setting an example for aspiring young footballers. “If we can set a good example, they have good footsteps to walk into,” Lookman added, reinforcing his commitment to motivating the next generation of players.
Lookman’s rise mirrors the success of other diaspora-born players like Osaze Odemwingie, Victor Moses, and Alex Iwobi, who have significantly contributed to the Super Eagles’ success. His success not only solidifies his place as one of Africa’s brightest talents but also strengthens Nigeria’s growing influence on the international football stage.
