Super Eagles and Atalanta forward, Ademola Lookman, has been nominated for this year’s Ballon d’Or, with the final ceremony set to take place next month.
Lookman gained widespread recognition after his hat-trick helped Atalanta secure the Europa Cup last May.
He is also a strong contender for the African Footballer of the Year award this season.
Lookman was part of the Nigerian team that won a silver medal at the AFCON 2023 tournament in Côte d’Ivoire last February.
As the only African on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, he is a potential favorite for the African crown.
Other notable nominees include Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, who had an outstanding season, winning La Liga and the Champions League, and leading England to the Euro 2024 final.
Lookman’s standout performances for Atalanta, both domestically and in Europe, make him a serious contender.
Several Premier League players also made the 30-man shortlist, including Manchester City’s Ruben Dias, Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, and Rodri. Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard were also included.
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez is in contention for both the Ballon d’Or and the goalkeeping award.
Manchester City has been nominated for the Men’s Club of the Year award after winning their fifth consecutive Premier League title.
They will compete against Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Girona, and Bayer Leverkusen for the accolade.In the women’s category, Lauren James, Lauren Hemp, Lucy Bronze, and Khadija Shaw are in the running for the women’s Ballon d’Or, while Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, along with Euro 2024 winner Lamine Yamal, are shortlisted for the Kopa Trophy.
