Ademola Lookman expressed his pride and gratitude after being named the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, calling it a defining moment in his career.

“It is an incredible achievement and an incredible moment,” Lookman said. “It is special to join a list of many great players who have achieved a lot in the game. They are legends.”

Reflecting on his journey, the Atalanta forward acknowledged both the highs and the challenges that shaped his success.

“There are a lot of special moments that happened this year, I can speak about a lot of good moments. But also the bad moments, when you don’t want to do gym, but you end up doing that session and that gives you more strength. The difficult moments have given me that extra strength,” he shared.

Lookman also emphasized the importance of inspiring future generations, urging young talents to follow the examples set by players like himself.

“For us to be able to give inspiration to the young kids who want to be like us is the most important thing. If we can set a good example, they have good footsteps to follow.”

The 27-year-old’s remarkable year included a hat-trick in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph and a standout performance for Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, cementing his place among Africa’s footballing greats.