Nigeria Players Abroad
Gasperini Backs Lookman for Ballon d’Or: “His magical skills won us Europa League”
By Monsurah Olatunji
Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed his support for Ademola Lookman to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or, praising the Nigerian forward’s extraordinary contributions to both the Super Eagles and the Italian club.
Lookman enjoyed an exceptional year, playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final in Côte d’Ivoire.
His stellar performances for Atalanta were equally impressive, with his unforgettable hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against undefeated German champions Bayer Leverkusen securing La Dea’s first major European trophy.
Gasperini, who has previously stated that he owes much of his career to Lookman, reaffirmed his admiration for the 26-year-old, saying he would personally cast his vote for him in the upcoming Ballon d’Or race.
“My personal Ballon d’Or vote would go to Ademola Lookman,” Gasperini said, according to Tutto Atalanta. “His magical skills helped us win the Europa League.”
Lookman’s remarkable achievements, including his historic hat-trick in the Europa League final, have undoubtedly made him one of the standout performers of the year, and Gasperini’s endorsement only adds to the growing recognition of his talent on the world stage.
As the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches, Lookman’s name continues to be associated with some of the top football accolades, and Gasperini’s support further solidifies his standing in the race for the prestigious award.