Lookman backed to replace Osimhen as African POTY

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Thursday Aug 22, 2024. 15:00

Atalanta BC star Ademola Lookman has been tipped to replace SSC Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as the African Player of the Year.

This is according to Nigerian coach Mathew Olorunleke who played for nine different clubs in Italy – Regianna, Tiento, Messina, Nocerina, Catanzaro, Lecco, Rovigo, Bagnolese and Juve Stabia during his playing days.

Lookman has had a great 2024 – helping Nigeria reach the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and also helping Atalanta clinch the UEFA Europa League title.

“Lookman is in form and on fire. He did well last season in the Serie A. He was also great at the Africa Nations Cup and he helped Atalanta win the Europa League,” Olorunleke said on All Nigeria Soccer.

“Becoming world player of the year is not just about what you do on the pitch; it also includes the image you create off it.

“When we talk about world footballer of the year, we talk about a brand. Football is now more than just playing the game.”

Lookman was named Atalanta Player of the Season for the 2023/24 season and was also included in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Team of the Tournament and the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League Team of the Season.