Super Eagles and Atalanta forward, Ademola Olajade Lookman, has revealed he remains unfazed despite being nominated for the Ballon d’Or award, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 26-year-old enjoyed a brilliant campaign with La Dea last season, leading them to the UEFA Europa League title, and just missed out lifting the Coppa Italia with his club side. He was also a core member of the Nigerian team that reached the AFCON 2023 final, scoring three goals in Ivory Coast.
His fine form saw him become the 8th Nigerian footballer to get a Ballon d’Or nomination, and he’s continued in the same vein this season, scoring three goals and providing two assists in six games.
Following Atalanta’s 3-0 midweek win against Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League, Lookman admitted he wasn’t trying to change anything despite getting a nomination for the award, rather, he wants to continue with what got him there.
“I don’t know if people’s perception of me has changed, but I just try to improve and become stronger everyday. This is the most important thing for me. I try to work hard on a daily basis for my character and my goals and I’ve remained the same person as before. We have a very strong group of attackers, great players with different characteristics. Each one wants to play to show their qualities. Being able to take the field with players like this is wonderful for me. They help me become better,” the former Everton man said in quotes revealed by The Guardian.
Lookman scored a goal and provided an assist against Shakhtar Donetsk before he was withdrawn on the hour mark. He was given the man of the match award in that game.