Football fans around the world might have expected Xabi Alonso, Florian Wirtz, or Nigeria’s Victor Boniface to steal the spotlight in the 2024 Europa League final. But it was none other than Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian sensation, who delivered a historic hat-trick and won hearts and silverware for Atalanta. Lookman’s rise has been marked by resilience, skill, and a touch of drama – and it’s about time we unpacked what makes him one of football’s brightest stars today.
From Sunday League to European Glory
Not everyone gets scouted at 16 and joins the ranks of top football academies. In fact, at that age, Lookman was still playing Sunday League football in London, despite enduring rejection after rejection from multiple English academies. But here’s where things took a twist: Lookman wasn’t about to quit. Determined, he pressed on until Charlton Athletic recognised his potential, and from there, his rise was meteoric. Fast forward to his 20s, and he had made it to Everton, marking the start of a professional journey that led him to European stardom.
Setting Records with Style
Lookman’s Europa League hat-trick for Atalanta against Bayer Leverkusen wasn’t just impressive – it was historic. In fact, he became the first player ever to score three goals in a single-legged Europa League final. Only one other hat-trick in the final exists in UEFA Cup history, scored by Jupp Heynckes in 1975, but that was over two legs. Lookman now stands alone in the record books – a true testament to his hard work, tenacity, and undeniable skill.
If this isn’t motivation, what is? Lookman proved that with grit and determination, you can go from the backfields of Sunday League football to the grand stages of European finals, setting records that others couldn’t even dream of.
A Decision That Changed Everything
One key moment that set the course for Lookman’s European breakthrough was his refusal to settle. In 2018, he was on the brink of a loan to Derby County, but Lookman stood his ground, not wanting to return to lower-tier football. He insisted on heading somewhere he could grow further – and ended up in Germany with RB Leipzig. This was the moment that turned Lookman from a good player to a great one. His performances in the Bundesliga gave him the foundation and confidence to take on bigger challenges, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Rising Through International Drama
The story of Lookman’s international career is an emotional rollercoaster. Born in England to Nigerian parents, Lookman’s dual nationality presented him with a choice: to represent England or Nigeria. Initially, he chose the Three Lions, even playing in the 2017 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, where he helped England lift the trophy. But Nigeria came knocking – not once, not twice, but thrice – and Lookman turned them down each time, firmly hoping for an England senior team call-up.
However, life had other plans. In 2022, Lookman made the decision to represent Nigeria, finally embracing his roots. And did he make an impact? Absolutely! He helped Nigeria reach the Africa Cup of Nations final in 2024, scoring three goals along the way. Though Nigeria narrowly lost to Côte d’Ivoire, Lookman had proven his mettle on the international stage. Today, he stands as one of Nigeria’s most cherished players – and they wouldn’t have it any other way.
Consistent Excellence: Ademola Lookman’s 2024 Ballon d’Or Nomination
So, how did Lookman’s stellar season with Atalanta earn him a place among the world’s elite at the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards? It’s simple: consistency and impact. Lookman’s Europa League hat-trick was just the tip of the iceberg. Across all competitions last season, he bagged an impressive 17 goals and 11 assists, playing a pivotal role in securing Atalanta’s first-ever European trophy. With his recent nomination as the 10th-best player in the world, Lookman made history again as the only African player on the Ballon d’Or list for 2024.
Lookman’s success proves that when you perform at the highest level, your efforts get recognised globally. His journey to the top serves as a reminder to aspiring footballers everywhere that perseverance, hard work, and never settling are the keys to achieving greatness.
The Embarrassing Moment We Can’t Ignore
For all his heroics, Lookman has also had his fair share of embarrassing moments – and perhaps the most unforgettable was his botched penalty for Fulham in 2020. With Fulham battling relegation and desperately needing an equaliser, Lookman decided to try a Panenka penalty. But instead of glory, the attempt ended in disaster, costing Fulham a crucial point and leaving fans and critics alike cringing.
While Lookman might want to bury that memory, it’s these stumbles that add character to his career. Despite the mistake, he kept pushing forward, refusing to let a single error define him. This resilience to bounce back from setbacks is what sets Lookman apart – and what has ultimately led him to the Ballon d’Or stage.
The Stats Speak Volumes
Lookman’s statistics last season are worth celebrating. With 17 goals and 11 assists for Atalanta, he was one of Serie A’s standout players. And his five goals and three assists in the early part of the new season suggest he’s just getting started. Notably, Lookman also made history as the first African player to score a hat-trick in a European club competition final. These achievements showcase his ability to perform under pressure, a rare quality that only the best players possess.
The Future Looks Bright
It’s clear that Ademola Lookman is one to watch, not just for his club or country, but as a beacon of African football on the global stage. He’s already the favourite to win the African Player of the Year, and if he continues his form, there’s no telling what else he might achieve. Lookman’s journey reminds us all that it’s never about where you start; it’s about where you’re willing to go and what you’re willing to overcome to get there.
Why Lookman Could Be Your Inspiration
If Ademola Lookman’s career teaches us anything, it’s that dreams are within reach, no matter how many times you’re told “no.” Imagine being rejected by multiple academies, struggling to find your place, but then breaking records in one of Europe’s most prestigious finals. Lookman’s story is a lesson in resilience, a call to keep pushing forward, even when the odds seem stacked against you.
Football might be his profession, but for Lookman, it’s also been a journey of growth, of choices that were not always easy but that ultimately defined him. As he shines on both the European and African stages, there’s little doubt that Ademola Lookman’s best is yet to come.
So, if you ever need a reminder of what hard work, determination, and a bit of boldness can accomplish, remember Ademola Lookman. He’s proof that setbacks are just set-ups for a comeback – and that greatness is always within reach if you’re willing to reach for it.
