Ademola Lookman’s football journey reached new heights as the Atalanta winger clinched the coveted 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award.

The 27-year-old star delivered a stellar performance throughout the year, showcasing his brilliance on both domestic and international stages. His pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ impressive second-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire set the tone for an unforgettable year.

Lookman’s crowning moment came in May when he spearheaded Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph. The former Leicester City player dazzled in the final, scoring a sensational hat-trick to seal a memorable victory against Bayer Leverkusen.

Recognized as Atalanta’s Player of the Season, Lookman also earned a spot in the UEFA Europa League Team of the Year. His exceptional performances extended beyond the club level, as he finished the year with an impressive tally of 27 goals and 12 assists across all competitions for both club and country.

Further solidifying his reputation, Lookman was the only African nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, where he secured a respectable 14th-place finish.

During his acceptance speech, a visibly emotional Lookman expressed gratitude:

“I want to thank Almighty God for His countless blessings in my life. I’m grateful to my teammates, my club, my country, and everyone who supported me. This award is for my family, my nation, and everyone who believed in me.”

Reflecting on his journey, he added:

“Just four years ago, I faced failure on a global stage. Today, I stand as Africa’s best player. To all the young dreamers watching this: don’t let failures break you. Turn your pain into power and keep flying. God bless.”

Lookman’s remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring footballers worldwide, proving that perseverance and resilience can transform setbacks into triumphs.