‘The time has come’ - CAF POTY winner Lookman heaps praise on Atalanta for his progress

On Monday night, Lookman was named the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year, beating Achraf Hakimi and others to the award.

The 27-year-old made history by becoming the sixth Nigerian to win the award, which he celebrated with his family.

Lookman has gained a great deal of recognition throughout Africa as a result of his outstanding performance from the previous season.

In a recent interview, Lookman commended and attributed his development to the cosy atmosphere at Atalanta.

Lookman told Flashscore. “I think the environment that the club (Atalanta) gave me has been very key to obviously my growth as a player.

“And also, just timing, you know, I’ve always believed in myself and to be able to achieve great things. But, yeah, the time has come and, you know, just blessed to be here.”

Lookman struggled to have a significant influence throughout the majority of his career. He played for Charlton Athletic, Fulham, Leicester City, RB Leipzig, and Everton, although he didn't make much of an impact.

But since he joined Atalanta two years ago, his situation has improved. In 97 games for the team, the Nigerian international has scored 43 goals and provided 23 assists. 

Lookman has had a strong start to the season scoring eight goals and providing four assists for Atalanta.