Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has achieved an impressive 14th place in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, marking the pinnacle of his exceptional 2023/24 season.
Lookman’s stellar performances for both his club, Atalanta, and the Nigerian national team have earned him this prestigious honor. The 27-year-old was a standout player at the AFCON tournament, where he finished as the joint top scorer, guiding the Super Eagles to the final.
In addition, Lookman’s record-breaking achievements with Atalanta were instrumental in securing the club’s first-ever European title, a historic moment for both player and team.
This season has been transformative for Lookman, firmly establishing him as one of the world’s top footballers. His ranking places him above several notable Premier League stars, including Martin Odegaard (19th), Granit Xhaka (16th), Emi Martinez (18th), Declan Rice (26th), Cole Palmer (25th), and Nico Williams (15th).
Lookman’s 14th-place finish highlights his dedication and talent, making him a strong contender for the African Player of the Year Award. Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen, who placed 8th last year, remains the highest-ranked Nigerian in the history of the Ballon d’Or.