In this article, we will learn about Nigerian professional footballer Ademola Lookman who recently gave the “Man Of The Match” performance against Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final.
Ademola Lookman is a tale of talent, tenacity, and aspirations for international success rather than merely a well-known football player. His story is quite inspirational, spanning from his humble beginnings in England to his rise to prominence in Italy’s Serie A and his international representation of Nigeria.
Let’s examine his life story and the steps that led him to his current position.
Early Life & Career
Ademola Olajade Alade Aylola Lookman was born on October 20, 1997, in Wandsworth, London. It was not surprising that young Ademola fell in love with football at a young age, given that she grew up in a busy city with a strong football culture.
But what really made him stand out was not just his enthusiasm, but also his extraordinary talent and drive for success.
Lookman began playing football in neighborhood kids’ leagues, where he demonstrated his abilities and attracted notice right away. His innate flair for the game, fast pace, and eye for goal demonstrated his early promise. His skill was quickly noted, and the academy at Charlton Athletic signed him.
Lookman made his debut in 2015 with Charlton Athletic, where his professional career got its start. He made great performances and developed quickly when he was at Charlton.
He made an impression in the Championship as a forward, showcasing his ability to take on defenders and score important goals. This was a crucial time since it attracted the attention of Premier League scouts and established the groundwork for his future success.
Move to Big European Clubs
Lookman moved to Everton in January 2017, taking a big step up to the Premier League. Although moving to a premier team was a significant step, Lookman managed it with the assurance and competence that had come to define him.
He was a winger at Everton, where he contributed his quickness and inventiveness to the club. On one of the biggest stages in sport, he made a memorable start by scoring in a 4-0 victory over Manchester City.
In January 2018, Lookman was loaned to RB Leipzig in order to continue developing. This was a calculated decision that gave him experience in the tough Bundesliga.
He flourished at Leipzig, making 11 appearances and scoring five goals, demonstrating his ability to adjust to new playing systems and perform well outside of England.
In July 2019, RB Leipzig signed Lookman to a long-term contract after being impressed with his loan period. This transfer guaranteed him a spot in European football and provided him with a secure environment in which to develop further.
Lookman’s brilliance was evident despite occasional difficulties in keeping steady form, and his time in Germany was a crucial period in his career.
Further Success
Ademola Lookman returned to the Premier League on loan in search of greater playing time, spending the 2020–2021 season with Fulham and the 2021–2022 season with Leicester City.
He needed these stints because they gave him regular playing time and a chance to show off his abilities in one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
The Nigerian international then made another big move in 2022 when he joined Serie A team Atalanta. He was able to compete in a new setting and advance his career with this relocation, which opened a new chapter in his career.
Lookman has maintained his impressive play at Atalanta, making an impact in Italy with his speed, agility, and goal-scoring prowess. On 22nd May, he scored a hattrick in the Europa League final against all-mighty Bayer Leverkusen.
International Career
Lookman decided to change his international allegiance to Nigeria in 2022, the nation of his parents’ ancestry. This decision was important and symbolic since it demonstrated his ambition to use the Super Eagles to change the game on a global scale while also tying him to his heritage.
Since then, Lookman has played a vibrant style of football for the national team while enthusiastically representing Nigeria.
Personal Life
Lookman is renowned for his humble & kind nature off the court. He cherishes his family and frequently gives them credit for his professional achievements and support.
Lookman uses his position to give back to the community and motivate aspiring football players. He also participates in a number of humanitarian endeavors.
Awards & Achievements
Lookman has received numerous accolades over his career. Notably, he competed for and was a member of the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup-winning England U-20 squad. He has also received praise for his individual efforts; in 2016, he was named the Charlton Athletic Young Player of the Year.
In the 2024 UEFA Europa League final, Ademola Lookman scored a three-trick for Atalanta, which helped them win handily over Bayer Leverkusen.
