The African player of the year snubbed Messi and Ronaldo as he named his childhood idol.
Ademola Lookman’s choice of childhood football idol has surprised many, as he named former Chelsea star Eden Hazard.
Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman is the current African Footballer of the Year, a stellar performance with club and country earned him a 14th-place finish at the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony.
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In a video captured by Goal during the Ballon d’Or ceremony, Lookman was asked which player he aspired to emulate. Without hesitation, the 27-year-old forward named Eden Hazard.
He gave the same answer when asked which player he would most like to play alongside.
Unfortunately for Lookman, his dream of playing alongside Hazard can only be realised in a charity match, as the Belgian announced his retirement in 2023 after a challenging period at Real Madrid marred by injuires.
 "Not Ronaldo or Messi - Ademola Lookman names his football idol 1")
EA Sports unveiled their Team of the Year as voted by the fans and the CAF Player of The Year was nowhere to be found.
However, Lookman shares several similarities with his idol. Both players occupy the same position on the field and are known for their direct style of play, utilising their speed and quick footwork to take on defenders.
Ademola Lookman hits milestone at Atalanta.
When asked which trophy he would like to win, Lookman set his sights on the ultimate prize, the FIFA World Cup.
Wow it’s very hard to see a player who does not have Messi or Ronaldo as his idol but ademola it good to be different
Lookman have his own idol I don’t think Ronaldo or messi should be one of them