Atalanta’s Lookman opens up about the demands of playing for Nigeria

By Wale Mustapha

Nigeria international Ademola Lookman has shared insights on the pressures he faces while playing for the country’s senior men national team compared to his club side, Atalanta.

In a recent interview with Counter Attack Podcast, Lookman revealed that representing Nigeria comes with a distinct set of pressures and responsibilities.

Lookman, who has become a key figure in the Super Eagles’ squad, played a pivotal role in the team’s recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda, scoring two goals.

With 25 appearances and nine goals for Nigeria, including three at the last AFCON tournament, Lookman has experienced firsthand the intensity of national team football.

“The pressure and responsibility come every time you get called up to play for the country,” Lookman explained.

“Our country lives and breathes football. If you go on the street, you see so many people wearing different football team shirts. It’s all about football, so that responsibility is always there.”

Lookman acknowledged that, over the three years he has been with the Super Eagles, his sense of responsibility has grown significantly.

“The responsibility is a lot higher now than when I first came in,” he added. This growing sense of duty reflects the immense importance football holds in Nigeria and the expectations placed on its players.