Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman has been nominated for the prestigious Forward of the Year award at the Gran Galà del Calcio, an annual event recognizing excellence in Italian football.
Lookman’s nomination comes after an outstanding season with Atalanta, where his impressive goal-scoring and playmaking abilities made him one of the standout players in Serie A. At just 27 years old, the Nigerian forward also finds himself among the nominees for the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, cementing his growing reputation on the international stage.
In the Forward of the Year category, Lookman faces fierce competition from some of Serie A’s finest players, including Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez, as well as AC Milan’s Rafael Leao.
Lookman’s rise to prominence was fueled by his extraordinary performances during the latter half of the 2023/24 season. From April onwards, he contributed to 14 goals—scoring eight and assisting six—making him the most productive attacking player in Europe’s top five leagues during that period.
One of the highlights of Lookman’s season was his historic hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen. This stellar performance not only secured Atalanta’s victory but also highlighted his ability to shine on the biggest stage.
By the end of the season, Lookman had amassed an impressive tally of 17 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, underscoring his versatility and impact as a forward.
As the current season unfolds, Lookman has carried his form into 2024, already racking up eight goals and five assists in just 14 appearances for Atalanta. His consistent performances have solidified his status as a key player for the team, often delivering in crucial moments.
On the African continent, Lookman is among the final five nominees for the CAF Men’s Player of the Year award. He joins an elite group that includes Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams.
The Gran Galà del Calcio awards, organized by the Italian Players’ Association, will take place on December 2nd. Winners will be determined through votes cast by association members.
Atalanta has also been recognized in other categories, with the club nominated for the Serie A Club of the Year award alongside Inter Milan and Juventus. Additionally, Atalanta’s head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is in contention for the Coach of the Year award, competing against Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi and Bologna’s Thiago Motta.
Ademola Lookman’s nomination reflects his dedication, skill, and the significant impact he has made in Italian and international football.
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