In a candid interview during the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman praised the rise of Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, expressing confidence in the young star’s potential to claim the coveted award one day. Lookman, who finished 14th in this year’s Ballon d’Or rankings, was the only Nigerian among the nominees—a recognition of his stellar form for both Atalanta and Nigeria.

Yamal, who at 17 has already dazzled on the European stage, earned the UEFA European Championship Young Player of the Tournament honor, alongside winning the Goal of the Tournament. This rapid ascent saw him clinch the Kopa Trophy and secure an eighth-place finish in the Ballon d’Or rankings, ahead of seasoned stars like Toni Kroos and England’s Harry Kane.

Reflecting on Neymar’s career, Lookman shared his regret that the Brazilian icon never received the Ballon d’Or recognition many believed he deserved, despite his brilliance and impact in European football.

For Lookman, it was a momentous year as well. His efforts powered Atalanta to the Europa League title, where he scored a remarkable hat-trick in the final, and his contributions at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations propelled Nigeria to the tournament final.

Speaking with DAZN, Lookman noted that while Neymar’s era may have passed without a Ballon d’Or, he sees boundless potential in Yamal, whose skills could one day bring him the highest individual honor in football.