In a defining moment of his career, Ademola Lookman, the London-born striker, has credited his decision to switch national allegiance to Nigeria as the catalyst for his remarkable rise in international football.
The 26-year-old, who made his name as part of England’s Under-17 World Cup-winning squad, represented the Three Lions at youth levels before making a momentous decision in 2022 to don the green and white of Nigeria’s Super Eagles. Two years into his decision, Lookman’s transformation from a Premier League underperformer to Africa’s best footballer serves as a powerful testament to the impact of that switch.
“I think ever since I put on the Super Eagles jersey, it’s been fruitful,” Lookman shared in a recent interview with SportyTV. “We’ve been able to achieve a lot as a team, and we’re still going. But the camaraderie within the squad is something very special.”
A Fresh Start with the Super Eagles
Lookman’s debut for Nigeria came during a crucial World Cup qualifying match against Ghana in March 2022. Despite the heartbreak of Nigeria’s failure to reach the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the switch signaled the start of a new chapter for the forward. It’s a chapter that has since seen him rise to the top of African football.
In December 2024, Lookman was named the CAF Men’s Player of the Year, a feat that marked the culmination of a meteoric rise. “It’s an incredible achievement,” Lookman reflected on his CAF victory. “It’s special to be able to join the list of many great players who have achieved so much in the game—legends. But it’s not just about me. We have a lot of talent in Nigeria and Africa, not just in the men’s game, but also the women’s game. For us to set a good example for young kids aspiring to be like us is the most important thing.”
His remarkable year includes three goals and two assists in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, helping Nigeria secure their place at the 2024 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire. His contributions were pivotal to Nigeria’s strong performances in the qualifiers, culminating in Lookman’s key role as they aim for their eighth continental title.
From Premier League Flop to CAF Player of the Year
Lookman’s career trajectory was once in doubt after a series of underwhelming performances in the Premier League. After a promising start at Charlton Athletic, he made a high-profile move to Everton in 2017 but struggled to establish himself as a consistent performer. Loans to clubs like RB Leipzig and Fulham seemed to solidify his reputation as a talented but inconsistent player.
But the 2022 switch to Nigeria has given Lookman the fresh start he so desperately needed. At Atalanta, his career has flourished. The forward has not only found his form but also become one of the standout players in Serie A. This season, Lookman has netted 12 goals and provided five assists in 19 appearances, putting him among the most prolific African players in Europe.
In May 2024, Lookman made history by scoring a European-record hat-trick in Atalanta’s dramatic 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen to secure the UEFA Europa League title. Leverkusen, the heavy favorites and unbeaten in the competition, were left stunned by Lookman’s performance, which was pivotal in Atalanta’s victory.
Lookman’s Impact on Nigerian Football
Lookman’s switch to Nigeria is part of a broader trend of talented players born outside Nigeria choosing to represent the Super Eagles. This growing list includes players like Osaze Odemwingie, Victor Moses, Alex Iwobi, Leon Balogun, and William Troost-Ekong, who have all contributed significantly to the national team’s success in recent years.
As Lookman’s career continues to soar, he’s following in the footsteps of these players, proving that diaspora-born talent is crucial to Nigeria’s footballing future. The influx of such players has reinvigorated the Super Eagles, injecting fresh energy and skill into the team’s dynamics.
“There’s a lot of talent in our squad, and I’m just happy to be part of it,” Lookman said. “The Super Eagles are a team on the rise, and we’ve achieved so much already. We have big goals, and we’re all united to push Nigeria to new heights.”
Lookman’s comments reflect the growing optimism surrounding Nigeria’s footballing prospects. With players like Lookman leading the charge, the Super Eagles are set for greater success on the continental and global stage. The forward’s evolution from a Premier League outcast to Africa’s Player of the Year is a powerful narrative of redemption and triumph.
Inspiration for the Next Generation
For many young Nigerians, Lookman’s story serves as a beacon of hope. His rise to the top of African football exemplifies what can be achieved with hard work, resilience, and the courage to make bold decisions.
“It’s important to set a good example,” Lookman emphasized. “Young kids who want to be like us need to see that it’s possible to make it. The more we achieve, the more they have role models to look up to.”
For Lookman, the journey has been one of personal and professional growth. The decision to switch his allegiance to Nigeria has not only transformed his career but has also brought him closer to his roots. As a member of the Super Eagles, Lookman has found a sense of pride and belonging, elements he says have been crucial to his recent success.
“Being part of the Super Eagles has been a dream come true,” he admitted. “It’s an honor to represent Nigeria, and I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved together. The best is yet to come.”
