Super Eagles and Atalanta FC forward Ademola Lookman has been nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, one of football’s most prestigious awards. The announcement was made ahead of the ceremony set to take place next month.
Lookman, who won a silver medal with Nigeria at the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire this past February, is the only African player on this year’s shortlist.
His nomination could also pave the way for him to contend for the ‘African Footballer of the Year’ title, which will be awarded later in the year.
Among the other notable nominees is Jude Bellingham, who had an outstanding season for both his club and country. Bellingham, who plays for Real Madrid, won the La Liga title and the Champions League, and reached the Euro 2024 final with England.
Lookman’s notable achievements include his exceptional performance with Atalanta, not only in domestic competitions but also his hat-trick that led the Italian side to victory in the Europa Cup against Bayern Leverkusen last May.
The 30-man shortlist also features several stars from the English Premier League. Manchester City is well-represented with four players: Ruben Dias, Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, and Rodri. Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard are also nominated, alongside Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who is in the running for both the main award and the best goalkeeper honor.
Manchester City has been nominated for the Men’s Club of the Year award after winning their fifth consecutive Premier League title. They will face competition from Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Girona, and Bayer Leverkusen for this accolade.
On the women’s side, players like Lauren James, Lauren Hemp, Lucy Bronze, and Khadija Shaw have been nominated for the women’s Ballon d’Or award.
Young talents have also been recognized, with Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho earning nominations for the Kopa Trophy, which honors the best young players.
They join Euro 2024 winner Lamine Yamal on the shortlist for this award.
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