Ademola Lookman began his journey with Waterloo FC before joining Charlton Athletic in 2014. Although his time at Everton didn’t meet expectations, and he struggled with Leicester City and Fulham, Lookman found success at Atalanta, scoring a hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final. Now, he is among the 30 nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, marking a significant achievement for the Nigerian international. Lookman is only the ninth player from Nigeria to be nominated for the prestigious award.
From Humble Beginnings to Football’s Pinnacle
Lookman’s rise from non-league football to the top tier is a remarkable story. Born in Wandsworth, Greater London, in 1997, Lookman was a top student and showed a natural talent for football. As a teenager, he showcased his skills with Waterloo FC, catching the eye of Charlton Athletic in April 2014 during a London FA U16 match. Despite having no previous academy experience, Lookman’s standout performance earned him a trial and eventually a scholarship with Charlton.
Rapid Ascension at Charlton and Everton
Lookman quickly made an impact at Charlton, scoring 12 goals in 49 appearances. His impressive form led to a transfer to Everton for £11 million in 2017. Despite high expectations, Lookman struggled to secure a regular spot in the first team. Loan spells at RB Leipzig, Fulham, and Leicester City followed, but his potential was often not fully realized.
A New Chapter in Italy
On August 4, 2022, Lookman signed a four-year deal with Atalanta in Serie A. This move marked a turning point in his career. He scored on his debut and quickly became a key player for the team. Lookman’s impact was profound; he ended the 2022-23 season as Atalanta’s top scorer with 15 goals and continued his impressive form into the 2023-24 season. His performance in the Europa League final, where he scored a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, highlighted his resurgence and cemented his place in football’s elite.
Reflecting on Lookman’s journey, Charlton academy director Steve Avory and former coach Oliver Reynolds expressed their pride and excitement. Avory praised Lookman’s exciting performances, while Reynolds was overjoyed by his success, feeling it was destiny for Lookman.
