Thursday, June 5, 2025 -Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has revealed that switching his international allegiance from England to Nigeria was one of the most pivotal decisions of his football career.
In an interview with ARISE TV, the 2024 CAF African
Footballer of the Year said the move transformed not just his professional path
but also his sense of identity.
“Without a
doubt, it changed my career and my life,” Lookman said. “People know that. This
is my home. This is my place. I enjoy it here. I am the son of the soil.”
Born in London, Lookman represented England at youth level
before committing to Nigeria — a decision that marked the beginning of a
remarkable rise. His profile soared after scoring a historic hat-trick in the
Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, sealing Atalanta’s first-ever
European title.
Now one of the most in-form attackers in Europe, the
27-year-old credits his success to unwavering discipline and daily consistency.
“I think it
was just self-belief and working hard every day. When you work hard every
single day, you gain confidence and grow in what you do. You know that
eventually, your hard work will pay off.”
Lookman admitted that mindset helped him through difficult
periods, including a tough loan spell at Fulham where he missed a crucial
penalty.
“Every day,
I try to improve myself, both on and off the pitch. That consistency and
mindset have really helped me.”
Winning the African Footballer of the Year award, he said,
was deeply personal.
“It’s
amazing. Honestly, I won’t lie to you, it’s a privilege to have it. I take it
with real pride. I’ve seen the great players who have received this award —
some of the biggest names in football. For me to be among them is a blessing.”
Lookman recently returned to Lagos to present the award to
President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The visit
also included a stop at Phase 2, a community where he spent much of his
childhood with his grandmother and father.
“It was
really important for me to bring this award back home. I’ve been cradling it
all day. Bringing it back to Lagos means everything. That’s where I brought it
back to, and today, I had the honour of presenting it to the President. That
meant a lot.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Lookman as a symbol of the
“Greater Lagos Rising” spirit and a role model for millions of Nigerian youths
When asked if he would be satisfied if he retired today,
Lookman was clear:
“Definitely
not. Retirement is nowhere in my thoughts. Not even close. There’s still a long
journey ahead. So much more to achieve. This is just another chapter of that
journey.”
Following his explosive season, several Premier League
giants — including Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United — are
reportedly preparing bids. Atalanta have placed a €50 million price tag on
their star man, who is currently regarded as one of Europe’s most valuable and
consistent forwards.
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