Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman has been shortlisted among the 30 global nominees for the 2024 Ballon d'Or award.

In the 2023/2024 season, Lookman, who plays for the Italian side Atalanta, was one of the team's top scorers, netting 17 goals and providing 11 assists, totaling 28 goal contributions.

Lookman is the only Atalanta player to have scored a hat-trick in all competitions.

His standout performance came when he scored a hat-trick against the German side Bayern Leverkusen in the 2024 Europa League final, helping his team clinch the trophy.

The Nigerian forward also had the highest goal contribution across Europe’s Big-5 leagues since April 2024, with 8 goals and 6 assists.

During the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), Lookman was Nigeria's star player, scoring three goals in seven matches.

Despite Nigeria losing to the host nation Ivory Coast in the final, his contributions were highly appreciated as one of the best players in the tournament.

Liverpool forward Mohammed Salah and Victor Osimhen have also been past nominees for the award.

Other nominees this year include Vinicius Junior, Fede Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Rodri, Lamine Yamal, and others.

Vinicius is a favorite among football pundits and fans to win this year’s prestigious award after scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists for Madrid last season.

The award ceremony is scheduled for October 28, 2024, in Paris, France.

SB/MA