Babayaro Salutes Lookman’s Parents for Raising Disciplined Super Eagles Star

Babayaro Salutes Lookman’s Parents for Raising Disciplined Super Eagles Star

Former Super Eagles defender and Atlanta 1996 Olympic gold medalist, Emmanuel Babayaro, has paid glowing tribute to Ademola Lookman, praising not only the Nigerian forward’s talent but also the family values that shaped his character.

Speaking during an appearance on the ATHLST podcast, Babayaro said he admires Lookman for more than his performances on the pitch, highlighting the discipline, humility and professionalism the forward displays off it. According to the former Nigeria international, such qualities reflect strong upbringing and family guidance.

“Ademola Lookman is one young man I honestly admire. And it’s not just about his playing; it’s about his comportment. All these things sum up to one thing for me — they say charity begins at home,” Babayaro said.

He used the opportunity to thank the footballer’s parents, noting that they played a major role in shaping the player’s attitude and values. Babayaro added that respect and ethics, often associated with Yoruba culture, were clearly reflected in the way Lookman conducts himself both on and off the field.

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Lookman, who currently plays for Atlético Madrid, has grown into one of Nigeria’s most celebrated attacking players. The forward enjoyed a breakthrough period in Europe and was crowned CAF African Footballer of the Year in 2024, cementing his place among Africa’s elite footballers.

The 27-year-old attacker has also played a key role for the Nigeria national football team, contributing to the country’s campaigns in the Africa Cup of Nations, where the Super Eagles secured podium finishes in recent editions.

Despite his current success, Lookman’s journey to the top was not without challenges. During his time at Everton F.C. in the Premier League, he struggled to establish himself, scoring four goals in 48 appearances before moving on loan to RB Leipzig in Germany.

Babayaro believes the Nigerian star’s creative playing style may have been better suited to other European leagues than England’s fast-paced and physically demanding game.

According to him, Lookman thrives in environments where players have the freedom to express themselves with the ball. In contrast, the Premier League often demands quick decisions under intense pressure, leaving little room for the kind of flair and creativity that defines Lookman’s game.

The forward eventually rediscovered his form in continental Europe, particularly during spells with Fulham F.C., Leicester City F.C. and especially Atalanta BC in Italy, where he became one of the club’s most influential players before moving to Atlético Madrid.

Across a professional career spanning more than 300 senior appearances, Lookman has never been sent off — a record Babayaro says speaks volumes about the player’s character and discipline.

For the former Chelsea defender, Lookman’s success is proof that talent combined with strong family values can produce not only a great footballer but also a role model for young athletes.

Babayaro Salutes Lookman’s Parents for Raising Disciplined Super Eagles Star