If a Nigerian wins it, it is definitely a joyous one – Emmanuel Amuneke backs Ademola Lookman for CAF Player Of The Year Award
Former Nigerian international and youth coach Emmanuel Amuneke has expressed his support for Super Eagles player Ademola Lookman to become the next CAF Player of the Year.
Lookman has excelled both for his club, Atalanta, and the Nigerian national team, scoring three goals to help Nigeria qualify for the 2023 AFCON final and being named in the Team of the Tournament. He also played a crucial role in Atalanta’s journey to the Coppa Italia final and delivered a stellar hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.
His strong club form carried over to Nigeria, where he scored twice in a 3-0 victory over Benin Republic. His outstanding performances earned him a spot on the 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist, making him the only African player to be nominated. Amuneke, who won the CAF Player of the Year award in 1994, said he is not surprised by Lookman’s rise to prominence.
Speaking during an interview on SportsBoom, Amunike said; “He’s in line (to be crowned CAF Player of the Year winner) if he continues the way he is doing.”
“I watched the last game against Rwanda, and his performance was outstanding. It shows that he has been able to consolidate himself with African football.
“When I won it, I think Ikpeba won it again, and then Kanu. If a Nigerian wins it next, it is definitely a joyous one. It’s a thing of great motivation that shows the future is bright for our young players.
“We need to continue to support our players, both in Europe and in our local leagues. We all need one another to form the ecological system that governs our football, for our football to strive.”
