Nigerian football star Ademola Lookman has made an emotional return to Lagos Island, proudly presenting his CAF African Player of the Year trophy—often referred to as the African Ballon d’Or—to his family and community.
The 27-year-old forward arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport to a rousing reception. Supporters clad in Nigerian and Atalanta colours celebrated his homecoming with chants, songs, and traditional dances, as he stepped out holding the prestigious award. The heartwarming scene was captured in a video that quickly went viral on social media platform X.
Lookman’s return marks his first public appearance in Nigeria with the trophy since he won the award in December 2024, capping off a phenomenal 2023/24 season.
He played a key role in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph and was instrumental in leading the Super Eagles to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. He also recorded a personal milestone—scoring 20 goals in all competitions, his best-ever season tally.
In new footage posted online, Lookman is seen visiting his family residence on Lagos Island, where fans gathered to celebrate. One voice could be heard cheering, “African best!” as he smiled and hugged elderly family members, holding the CAF trophy high for all to see.
His success on the pitch hasn’t gone unnoticed. Lookman has emerged as a hot prospect in the transfer market, with Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona, and Juventus reportedly expressing interest.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano previously confirmed Lookman is likely to leave Atalanta this summer, after the Serie A club rejected a bid from Paris Saint-Germain. The Italian side has now valued him at €65 million.
However, his future remains uncertain. According to reports from Calciomercato, Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini is reluctant to see Lookman go and is demanding that at least two of the club’s key players—Lookman included—remain before agreeing to renew his own contract.
With clubs circling and fans rallying behind him, Ademola Lookman’s next move will be one of the most watched developments in this summer’s transfer window.
