Nigeria international and Atalanta BC talisman, Ademola Lookman has pointed out that switching allegiance from England to represent Nigeria was a defining moment of his career, citing that it was a blessing in disguise.

The London born attacker appeared to represent England at youth levels but went on to renounce his decision and decided to turn to his fatherland, to respond to the call to play for the Super Eagles for his senior international career since 2022. The 2024 CAF African Footballer of the Year unwrapped the fact in an interview with ARISE TV.

“There’s no doubt about it — choosing Nigeria changed my life. This is my home, this is where I belong. I feel proud every time I wear the green and white. I’m the son of the soil.” He added.

“It’s all about belief and daily dedication. When you show up and give everything, even on your worst days, you grow. That mindset carried me through tough spells — even when I missed that penalty at Fulham, I kept going,” he said. The former Fulham forward unraveled his concept on winning the CAF Player of the Year Award.

“Honestly, it feels surreal. To be named among the greats who have won this award — players I looked up to growing up — is truly an honor. I carry it with pride,” Lookman asserted.

The former RB Leipzig and Fulham player made headlines in May 2024 when he made a statement with a hat-trick for Atalanta in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, firing the Bergamo outfit to their first-ever European title.

Lookman, 27, returned to Lagos where he presented the plaque to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.