Arsenal icon makes bold prediction about Lookman ahead of UCL clash against Atalanta

• Atalanta will host Arsenal in the first match of the revamped 2024/25 UEFA Champions League
• Nigerian striker Ademola Lookman largely dominated the headlines ahead of the decisive match between the two teams
• An Arsenal legend has made a bold prediction about the Nigerian striker ahead of the match scheduled for the Gewiss Stadium

Ademola Lookman is firmly in the spotlight ahead of Atalanta's opening UEFA Champions League match against Arsenal.

The Nigerian striker, who has been in exceptional form since the start of last season, is widely expected to play a key role in the highly anticipated clash.

The 26-year-old has developed a special talent for providing Gian Piero Gasperini's side with decisive moments, a quality he clearly demonstrated in last season's UEFA Europa League final.

As the showdown at the Gewiss Stadium approached, former Arsenal striker Ian Wright made a bold prediction about the future of the outstanding Nigerian star.

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Arsenal icon talks about Lookman

In his podcast “Wrighty's House”, the 60-year-old praised Lookman highly and highlighted the Nigerian's recent form.

“Oh my God, did you see his first assist? The way he just flicked it on – so good,” Wright marveled.

“It's really beautiful football, I'm so happy for him. But yes, he worries me.”

The Arsenal legend also touched on Lookman’s future prospects given his remarkable performances.

“His development, from his early days to what he's doing now, is definitely a big step forward,” Wright continued. “I'd love to keep him at Atalanta – he was brilliant there. From Charlton to this point, it's been an incredible rise.”

“Still, you get the feeling that Atalanta might not be his final destination, as great as it has been for him. And that's no disrespect, but he's playing at a level now where you understand why clubs say, 'Yeah, I could use him.'”

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Lookman, who many believe is currently enjoying the best phase of his career, was recently nominated for the prestigious Ballon d'Or.

According to data from SoarSuperEagles, he is already the eighth Nigerian player on France Football's shortlist.

Lookman tops Salah's unique list

Legit.ng Another report detailed that Ademola Lookman has overtaken Mohamed Salah on a unique football list.

The Atalanta striker became the African player with the most goal involvements without penalties in 2024. The striker has a good chance of winning the award as African Footballer of the Year 2024.

Source: Legit.ng