Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman, has opened up about what he calls one of the most pivotal decisions of his football journey, choosing to represent Nigeria over England.
In a heartfelt interview with ARISE TV, the 2024 CAF African Footballer of the Year reflected on the impact of that choice, describing it as transformative.
“Without doubt, it changed my career and my life,” Lookman revealed. “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 to Nigerian parents, Lookman had once featured for England at youth level.
However, he made the bold move to commit to Nigeria, a decision that coincided with a meteoric rise in his career. His defining moment came in the UEFA Europa League final, where he stunned the football world with a sensational hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, delivering Atalanta their first-ever European trophy.
Now 27, Lookman is widely regarded as one of the continent’s most exciting attackers. He attributes his remarkable form and growth to unwavering discipline, self-confidence, and hard work.
“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,” he said.
Lookman recalled how this mentality sustained him through the difficult stages of his career, including the emotional toll of missing a crucial penalty while on loan at Fulham.
“Every day, I try to improve myself, both on and off the pitch. That consistency and mindset have really helped me,” he added.
Winning the coveted African Footballer of the Year award marked a major milestone for Lookman, one he holds dear.
“It’s amazing. Honestly, I won’t lie to you, it’s a privilege to have it,” he said.
“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.”
Returning to Lagos with the award was particularly meaningful for the Atalanta star. He paid courtesy visits to President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, proudly showcasing the trophy.
Sanwo-Olu praised Lookman as a beacon of hope and a symbol of the “Greater Lagos Rising” movement, inspiring countless Nigerian youths.
The homecoming also saw Lookman visit Phase 2—a community close to his heart where he spent part of his childhood with his father and grandmother.
“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.”
Despite his current success, retirement isn’t on his radar.
“Definitely not. Retirement is nowhere in my thoughts. Not even close. There’s still a long journey ahead. So much more to achieve,” Lookman declared.
“This is just another chapter of that journey. There’s a long road still to go.”
Lookman’s dazzling form hasn’t gone unnoticed. Reports suggest top Premier League sides, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United, are circling with interest.
Atalanta have reportedly valued their star forward at €50 million, a reflection of both his exceptional ability and market value.
