Nigerian footballer Ademola Lookman is leading the charge for this year’s African Footballer of the Year award, as announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Monday.
The talented attacker has been a standout performer for both his club, Atalanta, and the Nigerian national team.
Lookman’s impressive performances in 2024, including a hat-trick in the Europa League final, have put him at the forefront of the prestigious award.
His contributions were pivotal in Atalanta’s successful campaign in European competitions, cementing his place among the continent’s finest.
In addition to his club exploits, Lookman also played a key role in helping Nigeria reach the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) earlier this year.
With such a remarkable season behind him, Lookman has become the favorite to win the prestigious title of Africa’s best footballer.
However, the competition for the award is fierce, with several other top African players also nominated.
Among them is Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, who had a standout year with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), winning Ligue 1 and earning widespread praise for his defensive performances.
Hakimi, widely regarded as one of the best fullbacks in world football, has proven to be a crucial player for both club and country in 2024.
Another strong contender is Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, who enjoyed an incredible season in the Bundesliga with VfB Stuttgart.
Guirassy’s remarkable goal-scoring form, netting 28 goals last season, earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund. His performances have made him one of the most exciting strikers in African football right now.
Also in the running is Simon Adingra of the Ivory Coast, who played a starring role in his country’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph earlier this year.
The young winger has impressed with his performances for Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League, and his contribution to his nation’s AFCON win has made him a fan favorite.
South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams is the fifth nominee for the coveted award.
Williams’ performances in goal for both club and country have made him one of the top shot-stoppers in Africa, and his consistency throughout the year has earned him a place among the continent’s elite.
The award is decided by the coaches of Africa’s 54 national teams, who will vote for their top choice, alongside an expert panel.
The winner will be announced at a ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco, on December 16, 2024.
For Lookman, the honor would cap off an exceptional year that has seen him rise to the top of African football.
If he wins, it would be a testament to his hard work and dedication on the pitch, as well as his ability to perform in crucial moments for both his club and country.
Lookman’s impressive rise has caught the attention of football fans across Africa and beyond, with many tipping him to become the next big star in global football.
As the December 16th award ceremony approaches, all eyes will be on these five exceptional players, each of whom has had an unforgettable year in African and international football.
