The Early Years: South London's Unwanted Gem
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Lookman's journey to stardom was anything but straightforward.
• Charlton Athletic: After being released by Charlton's academy, it was at the non-league level that Lookman's raw talent was first spotted. He quickly earned a return to Charlton, making his senior debut at 17.
• Everton: A big-money move to Everton followed, but despite flashes of brilliance, he struggled to secure a regular starting spot, often finding himself on the fringes.
"I always knew I had the ability, but sometimes it takes the right environment and the right belief to unlock it," Lookman once reflected on his challenging Premier League days.
The German Detour and Italian Rebirth
His career truly began to accelerate after a loan spell at RB Leipzig in Germany. This move to the Bundesliga, followed by temporary stints at Fulham and Leicester City, provided him with crucial experience.
However, it was his permanent move to Atalanta in Serie A in 2022 that transformed him into the unstoppable force we see today. Under manager Gian Piero Gasperini, Lookman found his tactical home, thriving in a free-flowing attacking system that perfectly suited his dribbling, vision, and eye for goal.