Lookman Leads Top Nigerian Forwards Abroad In 2024
Nigerian Forwards Abroad: Lookman Reigns Supreme in 2024
After the conclusion of the year’s football action involving Nigerian players abroad, here’s a look at the impressive stats of five top-performing forwards. Among them, Ademola Lookman stands out as the undisputed leader, with a remarkable year for Atalanta.
Ademola Lookman (Atalanta – 22 Goals, 12 Assists)
Crowned the 2024 African Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman enjoyed an extraordinary season. The 27-year-old contributed 22 goals and 12 assists in 42 matches for Atalanta, a feat that also helped secure the club’s first-ever UEFA Europa League title.
Lookman overcame a slow start to the year due to his involvement in the 2023 AFCON and returned with a bang. His historic hat-trick in the Europa League final capped an unforgettable year, solidifying his place as one of Africa’s top footballers.
Victor Osimhen (Napoli/Galatasaray – 21 Goals, 4 Assists)
Victor Osimhen had a tumultuous 2024, splitting his time between Napoli and Galatasaray after a summer transfer saga. Despite challenges, the 26-year-old managed 21 goals and 4 assists in just 29 games.
Starting the year with a goal against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League, Osimhen continued to deliver, ending his year in Turkey with standout performances, including a brace against Kayserispor.
Cyril Dessers (Rangers – 25 Goals, 8 Assists)
Cyril Dessers enjoyed a prolific season with Glasgow Rangers, scoring 25 goals and providing 8 assists in 54 games. Despite playing more matches than the other forwards, Dessers’ consistency made him one of the standout Nigerian players in 2024.
He began the year with an assist in January and remained a vital asset for Rangers throughout the season, showcasing his durability and attacking prowess.
Tolu Arokodare (Genk – 20 Goals, 4 Assists)
Tolu Arokodare has been a revelation in Belgium, netting 20 goals and providing 4 assists for Genk in 2024. His impressive form has placed him at the top of the Belgium Pro League scoring charts with 13 goals in the ongoing campaign.
The 23-year-old has been instrumental in keeping Genk at the top of the league, proving to be a key player for his team.
Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen – 13 Goals, 2 Assists)
Victor Boniface’s 2024 was hampered by injuries, but he still managed to showcase his potential. The 23-year-old scored 13 goals and registered 2 assists in 26 games before a thigh injury sidelined him in November.
His highlight of the year was a goal on his return from injury in April during Bayer Leverkusen’s Europa League clash with West Ham United.
Conclusion
From Ademola Lookman’s brilliance to Victor Osimhen’s resilience, Nigerian forwards left their mark across Europe in 2024. Their contributions continue to highlight Nigeria’s growing influence on global football.
Comments are closed.