Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has attributed his career success to his decision to snub England in favour of representing Nigeria.
Before switching allegiance to Nigeria in 2022, Lookman had represented England at youth level, notably winning the U-20 World Cup in 2017.
However, his early career in England with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City was marked by inconsistency, with the winger often criticized as a flop.
Lookman made his debut for the Super Eagles in March 2022 in a high-profile clash against Ghana, and he considers this moment a pivotal point in his career.
“I think ever since I put on the Super Eagles jersey, it’s been fruitful,” Lookman said in an interview with SportyTV, as quoted by ESPN. “We’ve been able to achieve a lot as a team and we’re still going as a team. But the camaraderie is something that’s very special within the squad.”
Since joining the national team, the Atalanta forward has thrived, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. His standout performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he netted three goals and registered one assist, was a key factor in him clinching the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award.
“It is an incredible achievement and an incredible moment,” Lookman remarked, according to CAFonline. “It is special to join a list of many great players who have achieved a lot in the game. They are legends.”
Lookman reflected on the challenges and triumphs that have defined his journey: “There have been many special moments this year, and I can speak about a lot of good ones. But also the tough moments, like when you don’t feel like hitting the gym, but you push through and end up doing that session—it gives you more strength. Those difficult moments have given me that extra strength.”
With Nigeria securing their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ticket for Morocco, Lookman will be one of the players to watch, aiming to continue his impressive form and build on his remarkable rise with the Super Eagles.
