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Atalanta and Nigeria ahead Ademola Lookman has been named the 2024 CAF African Participant of the Yr, capping off a exceptional 12 months for membership and nation. Lookman’s acceptance speech included a strong message of perseverance and overcoming adversity.
Lookman’s choice as CAF African Participant of the Yr comes as little shock, significantly after he grew to become the primary Atalanta participant ever to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or, ending 14th. His standout performances in 2024, together with a hat-trick within the Europa League remaining victory in opposition to Bayer Leverkusen, solidified his standing as a number one candidate.
He additionally earned a spot within the Europa League Workforce of the Yr. His 2024 objective and help totals (27 objectives and 12 assists) communicate for themselves.
In his acceptance speech, Lookman expressed his gratitude and shared a strong message: “I need to thank almighty God for every little thing that He’s been doing in my life… I need to thank the Presidents, all my teammates, membership and nation, for his or her assist and the love that they provide me… This award is for me, my household, my nation and to be recognised as one of the best participant in Africa is one thing unimaginable. I’m extraordinarily proud. Simply over 4 years in the past I failed in entrance of the world. Quick ahead 4 years, I’m one of the best participant in Africa. I need to say to all of the younger kids and other people watching this, don’t let your failures weigh you down or break your wings. Flip your ache into your energy and proceed to fly. God bless.”
Lookman’s profession path and success at Atalanta
Lookman’s reference to “failing in front of the world” is a nod to a missed penalty for Fulham in 2020. His journey from that second to being topped one of the best participant in Africa underscores his resilience and willpower.
Lookman started his profession at Charlton Athletic’s academy earlier than shifting to Everton, RB Leipzig, Fulham, and Leicester Metropolis. His profession really flourished after becoming a member of Atalanta in 2022, benefitting from coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s steerage.
Notably, the award win for Ademola Lookman is one thing of a shock given the excessive caliber of African expertise presently enjoying in Europe’s prime leagues. Neither Sadio Mané nor Mohamed Salah, each earlier winners, featured among the many nominees this 12 months, highlighting the ever-shifting panorama of African soccer and the emergence of latest stars.
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