Former Premier League star and pundit Emmanuel Adebayo has named Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman as his standout player of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations so far.
In an exclusive sneak peek, Adebayo acknowledged several impressive performers at the tournament—including Franck Kessié, Bryan Mbeubo, Sadio Mané, Riyad Mahrez, and Mohamed Salah—but singled out the Super Eagles forward for special praise.
“This is a hard one, but to be sincere, I will reveal to you my best player of the ongoing AFCON Tournament,” Adebayo began. “There are a lot of players doing quite well... But for me, the one that stands out is Ademola Lookman.”
Adebayo highlighted Lookman’s remarkable form, noting his contributions of 4 assists and 3 goals in the competition. He also pointed to the winger’s resilience, emphasizing how he has carried strong club form onto the international stage.
“Whatever he is doing at this AFCON this year, previously knowing what he has been through in his club before this tournament, he is just brilliant, and we are happy for him,” Adebayo added.
Reflecting on Lookman’s consistency, he drew parallels to the forward’s impactful showing at the previous AFCON in Ivory Coast, where he also scored crucial goals.
“Last tournament in Ivory Coast, he showed character, he showed personality... the history is actually repeating itself, he is doing quite well, and we are really happy for him.”
Adebayo concluded firmly: “So if you ask me to choose one player so far, my best 2025 AFCON Player of the Tournament will be Ademola Lookman.”
The endorsement comes as Nigeria prepares for a high-stakes semi-final clash, with Lookman expected to play a key role in the Super Eagles' quest for a fourth continental title.
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