Biography
Early Life
Born in Wandsworth, London on October 20, 1997, Ademola Lookman grew up in south London before Charlton Athletic's academy recognised his talent. He was quick, tricky and had a natural gift for scoring — qualities that took him from the Championship to the Premier League and then across Europe.
Breakthrough
Everton bought Lookman from Charlton and he spent time developing at various clubs including RB Leipzig on loan, where he scored a cheeky Panenka penalty on his debut — a moment of personality that defined how he plays. He eventually landed at Atalanta in Bergamo, where Gian Piero Gasperini's system transformed him into one of Europe's most dangerous forwards.
Career
The defining moment of Lookman's Atalanta career came in the 2023-24 Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, where he scored a hat-trick — a performance that left the football world speechless. He had been the best player on the best team in the competition, and the individual achievement in the final cemented his status as a world-class forward. In February 2026, Atlético Madrid paid £30.3M for him — a fee that looks modest given his ability.
Personal Life
Lookman is British-Nigerian and carries a strong connection to both identities. He chose to represent Nigeria at international level rather than England, and has become one of the Super Eagles' most important players. He is known for his positive mentality and love for the game.
Legacy
A hat-trick in a European final. One of the most significant individual performances in the history of the competition. Whatever else Lookman does in his career, that night in Dublin will never be forgotten.
Stats & Finances
Career Timeline
Signed by Everton from Charlton Athletic and began making his way in the Premier League
Joined Atalanta permanently and thrived under Gasperini's demanding system
Scored a hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen — one of the great individual performances in European football
Joined Atlético Madrid in February 2026 for £30.3M after a long transfer saga
Fun Facts
Lookman scored a hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen — only the second player in history to score a hat-trick in a UEFA final
He scored a cheeky Panenka penalty on his RB Leipzig debut — a moment of pure confidence that told you everything about his personality
Despite being born in London and eligible for England, Lookman chose to represent Nigeria — a decision he has spoken about with great pride
Atalanta tried to sell him to Inter Milan in summer 2025 but the deal collapsed; he moved to Atlético Madrid instead in February 2026
His hat-trick in Dublin against Leverkusen came in a game where Atalanta were considered underdogs against the unbeaten Bundesliga champions
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