Ademola Lookman is currently experiencing a career high, citing former Real Madrid stars Robinho and Cristiano Ronaldo, alongside Barcelona legend Lionel Messi, as his childhood idols. In an interview with *France Football*, Lookman shared his thoughts on how these players have shaped his approach to the game.
“When I was little, I admired Robinho; he was a different player,” Lookman remarked. “And then, of course, Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. My football is instinctive. If I think about it too much, I freeze.”
After an impressive year that saw him help Nigeria reach the final of the Africa Cup of Nations and guide Atalanta to their first Europa League title, Lookman received a nomination for the Ballon d’Or. At 26 years old, he expressed how special it feels to be recognized among the top 30 players in the world, particularly as the only African on the list.
“It’s crazy,” Lookman said. “Being the only African on the list is even more special. I’m proud of it. It’s an honor, knowing where I come from.”
Lookman made history in May by scoring a remarkable hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, becoming the first player to net three goals in a final of a European competition. This feat solidified his status as a club legend in Atalanta’s history.
“The feeling of winning and having the gold around your neck is incomparable,” Lookman expressed. “Writing history in a small city like Bergamo is something extraordinary. I was very struck by the fact that Gasperini told me a few days later that I had become part of football history. It’s true, it’s an honor, but I worked hard to get here.”
With his outstanding performances for both club and country, Lookman is now a leading contender for the Africa Footballer of the Year award, further solidifying his place among the elite in football.
