Ademola Lookman Reflects on His Hat-Trick Heroics in Europa League Final

Ademola Lookman’s Historic Hat-Trick: A Career Milestone

Ademola Lookman has recently shared that the unforgettable hat-trick he scored during the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen is one of the pinnacle moments of his career. This historic game took place in May, and the Nigerian international’s impressive performance helped his team secure an incredible victory.

Against All Odds: The Final Match

Facing a formidable opponent that had not suffered defeat in 361 days, Lookman’s stellar three-goal display in Dublin was nothing short of spectacular. It solidified not only his place as a rising star in football but also culminated in Atalanta finishing fourth in Serie A and awarded him the title of Player of the Season.

Consistent Performance in Serie A

Ademola Lookman has undoubtedly made a name for himself in Serie A. Last season, he recorded an impressive tally of 11 goals and 8 assists, which followed a remarkable debut season where he netted 13 goals and provided 8 assists. His consistent performance is attracting the attention of major European clubs, all eager to secure his talents.

An Unforgettable Preparation

Reflecting on his preparations for the final, Lookman mentioned that he maintained his regular routine. "Did I eat anything different? No! I prepared the way I always prepare for every single game. To do my best and to try and help the team," he stated. His confidence and steady approach were evident as he took to the pitch that night.

The Joy of Achievement

"That night was probably my biggest achievement so far as well as playing for Nigeria, representing my country," Lookman shared, emphasizing the historical significance of the match not just for him personally but also for Atalanta and the city of Bergamo.

Career Journey: Stability at Atalanta

Ademola Lookman has faced a winding road throughout his career, having transferred from Charlton to Everton and subsequently moving through various clubs, including RB Leipzig, Fulham, and Leicester. His journey has offered valuable experiences, but it is at Atalanta that he finds his true form and a stable platform to express his capabilities.

Holding Onto the Present

As Lookman reflects on his career, he acknowledges the importance of the journey. "I wish things would have clicked a lot earlier. But life is like this. I'm happy that I've gone through the things I've gone through because obviously, it's made me who I am today," he remarked.

International Recognition and Future Prospects

Lookman’s success is not only confined to club football; during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, he made headlines by scoring key goals that led Nigeria to the semi-finals. However, despite Nigeria's loss in the final, Lookman continues to be celebrated for his performances.

The Chance to be African Player of the Year

Search engines are abuzz with news of Lookman being a contender for this year's African Player of the Year. "It's a great feeling. I'm blessed to be in the running and be one of those names to be talked about and recognized," he expressed enthusiastically.

Why Lookman is Thriving in Italy

Atalanta’s head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's decision to position Lookman in a more attacking role has played a significant role in his success. Lookman is now gaining recognition as one of Europe’s top players and is linked with major clubs.

Staying Focused

"For me, I've just been very key on staying in the present and enjoying that. Staying in the now has brought me to this moment," said Lookman. His ability to stay grounded and focused amid speculation regarding his future is commendable, enabling him to perform consistently on the pitch.

As Lookman continues his journey in football, it will be fascinating to see how he builds on his recent successes and whether he'll clinch more accolades in the upcoming seasons.