Sports Career of Ademola Lookman in Nigeria and Beyond: African Player of the Year

Ademola Olajade Alade Aylola Lookman is considered one of the most sensational and fastest footballers in Nigeria. Lookman’s journey demonstrates the blending of English football training and the Nigerian football passion and style. After being a steady performer in Atalanta, Lookman established his reputation and went from local English youth setups to Europe with Atalanta. Explore and enjoy Helabet while reading this article that document the milestones and achievements in his football career from his childhood to having international exposure with Nigeria’s national football team.

Early Life and Football Roots in Nigeria and England

Lookman was born to Nigerian parents in Wandsworth, London, and was raised in England. His football career was rooted in and formed from two foundational cultures: Nigeria and England. While his Nigerian culture shaped and cultivated his principles, his English cultural upbringing served to advance his early football exposure and development opportunities.

Ademola Lookman’s background and parents

Ademola Lookman was born in Wandsworth, London, to parents from Nigeria, members of the Yoruba ethnic group. He coupled sports and academics while he attended Thomas the Apostle College in Peckham, later Apostle College in Peckham. While he showed undeniable passion for the game, his parents always balanced discipline and education.

Lookman acknowledges the strong family influence for the discipline and work ethic he possesses. His humility and perseverance, values from his Nigerian roots, assisted him in adapting during his different stints across Europe, starting time at Goodison Park to his later days in Italy with Atalanta.

Which state is Ademola Lookman from?

Although Lookman was born in England, his family history stretches back to Lagos State, Nigeria, which is why he has strong ties to Nigeria. His decision to represent Nigeria was inspired by his upbringing, which enriched his desire to play for his parents’ home country.

Youth career beginnings at Charlton Athletic

Lookman joined Charlton Athletic after being seen playing for Waterloo FC, a youth team in the area. He started footballing at Charlton Athletic’s Academy in 2014, and on November 3, 2015, he made his professional debut for Charlton and scored a goal shortly after. He was regarded as one of the rising stars, being acknowledged for his technical skills, rapid pace, and footballing intelligence.

Lookman was able to create his attacking identity as a winger, developed the ability to play on both sides of the pitch, and made various goal-scoring opportunities which drew the interest of bigger clubs to him.

Club Career Progression of Ademola Lookman

Lookman has developed a steady and growing career as he moved clubs, playing in different football cultures — starting from the Premier League, moving to the Bundesliga, and currently in the Serie A.

Charlton Athletic – Early breakthroughs

Lookman made his debut for Charlton in November 2015 and contributed 5 winning goals in the 24 matches for the season. His composure and pace established him as one of the most promising young talents in the English football. His time at Charlton ended when Everton signed him in January 2017, marking his entry into the Premier League. Also, Ademola Lookman made his first-team debut for the ‘Addicks’ on November 3, 2015, and he did not take long to leave a mark. Just a month later, he scored his first professional goal, although the team lost to Brighton & Hove Albion. He kept up his great season, scoring two goals in a 2-2 draw against Bolton Wanderers soon after.

Everton – Premier LeagDe debut

Lookman joined Everton in January 2017, and under Manager Sam Allardyce, he became a solid member of the squad. Scoring in a 4-0 victory over Manchester City, he became the 1st player in Everton history to score on his debut in the Premier League side Fulham. This moment remains one of the prized possessions during Ademola Lookman’s career at Goodison Park.

As time went on, things changed, and he became a late substitute in most of the matches, and consistent play time became hard to come by. This did not go unnoticed as he began to draw the attention of clubs across Europe.

RB Leipzig – Bundesliga transition

In 2018, Lookman moved to Bundesliga club RB Leipzig on loan, and it did not take long for him scoring the winning goal 1st in the Bundesliga. He quickly adapted to the pace of German football, and his performances earned him the title of the player of the match in a series of important games. Leipzig signed him on a permanent basis in July 2019.

He did not get as much playing time during his time in Germany as he had to compete with players from Borussia Mönchengladbach. Living in Germany helped him improve his tactical awareness and ability to play under pressure.

Leicester City – Loan spell in the Premier League

In 2020, Lookman started playing for Fulham, then on the 2021 to 2022 season he was loaned to Leicester City. Lookman managed to make and influence the game with some goals and assists, coming on as a sub for the last part of the game. He proved that he was able to adjust to all different tactical systems a coach would use as he burst off the bench and changed the game in his teams favor.

Atalanta – Rise to European prominence

In 2022, Lookman made the switch to Atalanta in Italy’s Serie A. He was instrumental in the season defining matches for Atalanta and became a key player in the teams attack. He scored the two goals in a key league victory and the same season became a household name for his performance in the Europa League final which further solidified his reputation in the attacking role for the squad.

With Atalanta, Lookman managed to elevated his game to the top of his forward career, displaying confidence, precision, and resilience in his performance.

Triumph with Atalanta and Win Over Liverpool

Lookman’s performance for Atalanta in the 2023-2024 season is the highlight of his club career to date. His remarkable goals, along with the attacking powers he consistenly delivered, earned for the club a place in history, making the season one of the greatest in the history of the club.

The UEFA Europa League Final Performance

Lookman arrived at the UEFA Europa League Final after displaying elite form throughout the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations season. In the final of the tournament where Atalanta played against Liverpool, Lookman dominated the game. He scored the match-winning goal and became the first player in the history of the Europa League to score a hat trick in a final.

Ademola Lookman’s Hat-trick and the Win over Liverpool

Lookman completed the final with a hat trick, leading to a 3-0 victory, and becoming the first player in history to score a hat trick in a Europa League final. He won the Player of the Year award at his club and gained fame internationally. Lookman has cemented his place and became the subject of numerous accolades, and many fans called him a contender for Africa’s Player of the Year.

Impact on Atalanta’s status in Europe

That win rebranded Atalanta, and the club went on to finish the season as runners-up in Serie A. Lookman’s hat trick made a strong impact on the season and rebranded him as one of the most sought-after forwards in the game.

International Career with England and Nigeria

Lookman’s international career captures the essence of a dual identity. He played for England before committing to Nigeria, proudly representing both nations in his career.

England U20 World Cup success

Lookman was part of the England U-20 squads that participated in the U-20 World Cup and the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Championships. He was instrumental in England winning the tournament, scoring three goals overall and winning the tournament, which opened the door to his recognition in the international football scene.

National team switch: Joining the Super Eagles

Lookman represented England for several years until he decided to change his international allegiance to Nigeria in 2022, a move that was sanctioned by FIFA, and as a result, he represented the Nigeria national team. He has played for Nigeria ever since with great football pride and passion.

Key performances for Nigeria in AFCON and beyond

Lookman was instrumental in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and for good reason, as it was in this tournament that he scored his first goal for the Super Eagles. His goal in the knockout round was the most important goal of that round, securing victory for Nigeria. His creativity on the football pitch and his consistency on Nigeria’s offense has become the backbone of the Super Eagles, earning him most reliable status in the team.

Honors and Achievements in the Sports Career of Ademola Lookman

The range of honors Lookman has achieved in his club and international career certainly displays the rise in his status in world football. The history of his career, highlighted by the contrasting milestones of a senior debut for Charlton and a European trophy with Atalanta, reflects his dedication and quality.

Club honors (including Atalanta)

Athletic adaptability and integration have been some of the key attributes in Lookman’s career, especially in European football, and these qualities have also helped his teams.

• UEFA Europa League Champion (2024) – Atalanta’s first European title. Lookman scored a hat-trick in the final.
• Bundesliga Top Performer (2018) – Lookman was awarded this title while on loan to RB Leipzig and scored five goals in 11 appearances.

Routine top performer throughout the domestic seasons in England, Germany, and Italy and contributed goals and assists.

National team honors with England and Nigeria

Lookman has had success with England’s youth teams and with the Super Eagles of Nigeria, his international success crossing paths with 2 nations, which is a key achievement for him. Member of the England U20 team, Lookman was instrumental in the team’s 2017 championship victory, scoring three goals in the tournament. Lookman was a critical player in the 2023–2024 AFCON tournament for Nigeria, being one of the attacking leaders throughout the championship.

Individual Awards and Recognitions

Lookman’s remarkable personal performances have earned him several prestigious individual accolades in addition to his honors. Lookman’s magnificent performance in the 2024 Europa League Final, where he scored a decisive hat-trick, earned him the Man of the Match award. For his great contributions in the 2023–2024 season, he earned the Player of the Season award from both the fans and the club, Atalanta. Lookman received a 2024 CAF Player of the Year nomination, establishing him further as one of the top African footballers in Europe.

Conclusion

Ademola Lookman’s football journey is one of pride and the strong spirit of self-identity, having played from Charlton Athletic to Atalanta and England’s U-Youth teams to Nigeria’s senior national squad. Lookman’s switch to the Nigerian national team while achieving success overseas has galvanized many young Africans. His remarkable talent and numerous accolades attest to the fact that Lookman is, without question, one of the most promising African footballers in the world today.

FAQs

What nationality is Ademola Lookman?

Ademola Lookman is Nigerian and British. Lookman was born in England to Nigerian parents and eventually chose to play soccer for Nigeria at the international level.

Why did Ademola Lookman switch to play for Nigeria?

Lookman switched to play for Nigeria to honor his roots and help grow football in Nigeria. His close family ties and relationship with Lagos State were also a major influence.

What clubs has Ademola Lookman played for?

He has played for Charlton Athletic, Everton, Fulham, Leicester City, RB Leipzig, Atalanta.

What was Ademola Lookman’s role in the win over Liverpool?

He was the star player in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final, scoring all three goals in Atalanta’s 3–0 victory over Liverpool and winning the club their first European title.

Has Ademola Lookman ever been nominated for the Ballon d’Or?

Although he has yet to receive a Ballon d’Or nomination, Lookman stands a good chance of getting nominated in the future, especially considering the performances he has given in 2024 and the fact that he is amongst the top African players this year.