Renowned football coach Gernot Rohr has expressed confidence that Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has what it takes to clinch the coveted CAF African Player of the Year Award. The former Super Eagles manager praised Lookman’s remarkable development, calling him one of Africa’s most complete players and a worthy contender for the prestigious accolade.
Speaking to Foot Africa, Rohr highlighted the winger’s transformation into a standout player, noting how Lookman has overcome past challenges to achieve excellence for both club and country. “He has made a lot of progress. His difficult first seasons in England and Germany are now a thing of the past. He has managed to get back up and shine,” Rohr remarked.
The Benin Republic head coach, who previously led the Nigerian national team, pointed to Lookman’s stellar performances in 2023 as evidence of his qualification for the award. “I followed him a few years ago with the Super Eagles. He went from the shadows to the light. Today, he is a complete player, as effective as an assister as he is as a scorer,” Rohr added, emphasizing Lookman’s well-rounded skill set.
Lookman, 27, has had an exceptional year on the pitch. The Nigerian winger played a pivotal role for the Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Côte d’Ivoire, where he scored three goals and provided one assist in seven matches. His contributions were instrumental in helping Nigeria make a strong tournament run.
On the club front, Lookman made history with Atalanta, scoring a sensational hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, cementing his place in the competition’s annals. His domestic season has been equally impressive, tallying 11 goals and five assists in 18 appearances across all competitions so far.
Inclusion in the final list of nominees for the CAF Men’s Player of the Year Award comes as recognition of Lookman’s outstanding achievements in 2023. The award, which celebrates the best of African football, has historically been won by icons such as George Weah, Didier Drogba, and Samuel Eto’o. Lookman’s nomination places him among the continent’s elite players and highlights his rising status in the football world.
Rohr’s endorsement reflects the widespread admiration Lookman has garnered for his resilience and evolution. From struggling for form during his early days in England and Germany, the forward has grown into a reliable performer on the international stage and a key figure for his club.
With his incredible versatility, goal-scoring ability, and knack for creating opportunities, Lookman has proven himself as a leader on and off the field. As the CAF Awards ceremony approaches, fans and football analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see if Rohr’s prediction comes true, crowning Lookman as Africa’s best in 2023.
