A former African star has stated that the 2024 CAF Men's Player of the Year award should already be prepared for Ballon d'Or nominee Ademola Lookman, ahead of Ronwen Williams and other candidates.
The Atalanta star finished 14th in the race for what is considered by many to be the most prized individual achievement in world football.
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His nomination comes after a 2023/24 campaign that saw him score a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final to help his side beat Bayer Leverkusen to a continental triumph.
Along with electrifying displays, the Nigerian amassed 17 goals and 10 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions.
Last month, CAF announced the nominees for the Men's Player of the Year award, with Lookman being named alongside other prominent African players plying their trade across the globe.
The list included the Super Eagles star, along with compatriot William Troost-Ekong, Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi, Edmond Tapsoba, and South Africa's Ronwen Williams among others.
However, former Nigeria international Ogenyi Onazi believes that an outright winner already exists.
"Lookman is an exceptional talent. His hard work, commitment, and discipline set him apart," the former player told Brila FM per Naija News.
"I am thrilled with his achievements and his nomination for the Ballon d'Or, which is a testament to his quality.
"CAF should prepare the trophy for him; it's not just about him being Nigerian, but because he truly is the finest player in Africa right now.
"His performance last season was phenomenal, and he deserves every recognition he gets."
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By Junaid Benjamin
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