Atalanta boss reveals why Lookman should win the Ballon d'Or ahead of Vinicius Jr, Rodri, Bellingham, Yamal

Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed strong support for Ademola Lookman, backing the Nigerian forward to clinch the prestigious Ballon d'Or ahead of the top contenders.

In September, Ademola Lookman was nominated as one of the 30 contenders for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, recognizing his significant contributions to both Atalanta and the Nigerian national team last season.

Some of the top contenders for the prestigious award include Real Madrid duo Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham, Manchester City's Rodri and Barcelona teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.  

Lookman played a pivotal role in Atalanta's UEFA Europa League triumph, scoring a hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.

In addition to his club success, he played a key role in helping Nigeria secure a silver medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire.

During an interview with Sky Sport Italia via Tutto Atalanta, Gasperini is rooting for Lookman to win the award because of the key role the forward played in the 2024 Europa League showpiece.

“To Lookman who allowed us to lift the Europa League with his feats,” Gasperini said. 

The Ballon d'Or ceremony is set to take place on October 28 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.

With this nomination, Lookman joins an esteemed list of eight Super Eagles players who have previously been recognized for the award.

Notable past nominees include Finidi George, Daniel Amokachi, and Jay-Jay Okocha.

As Lookman vies for the title, he aims not only to win but also to outperform fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen, who finished eighth in last year's rankings. 

Adeyemi Adewale

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