Nigeria international, Ademola Lookman revealed why he chose to drop the English National Team to represent Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
Lookman represented England at the youth level, including winning the U-20 World Cup in 2017, but eventually chose to represent Nigeria at the senior level.
“I decided with my heart to play for the Super Eagles because I have a close and personal connection with the country.”
Ademola Lookman also spoke on his nomination for the prestigious Ballon d’Or, with the winners set to be revealed on October 28 at a ceremony in Paris.
The Atalanta forward, is the only Nigerian and African player on the 30-man shortlist this year.
This marks the second consecutive year a Nigerian player has been nominated, following Victor Osimhen, who ranked 9th last year.
Lookman’s nomination comes after a remarkable season, including three goals in Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign and a memorable hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Europa League final, which secured the club’s first European title since 1963.
Reflecting on his nomination, Lookman said, “I thought it was crazy when I saw my name among the 30 candidates for the Ballon d’Or. It’s crazy, and being the only African player on the list makes it even more special. I’m really proud of it. It’s an honour knowing where I’ve come from.”
Ademola Lookman also spoke about his roots, growing up in London’s Peckham and Camberwell areas, which he fondly described as “Little Lagos” due to the large Nigerian community.
The winners of the Ballon d’Or will be announced on October 28 in Paris.
