Former Ghana coach Claude Le Roy has raised concerns over Ademola Lookman’s impact with the Nigeria national team, suggesting the forward has struggled to replicate his club form while on international duty.
Speaking on Canal +, Le Roy said: “Lookman, when he comes back to the Nigeria national team, is not quite the same player anymore.”
Le Roy pointed to signs of recovery at Atalanta, where Lookman has begun to find his rhythm again.
He added: “We get the impression that in the last few matches with his club, he is starting to get a little bit comfortable, we are starting to see him again in certain plays. He is finding life a little easier.”
Even with his doubts about the winger’s recent outings for Nigeria, Le Roy remains convinced the Super Eagles will be a major force at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. In his view, only one team goes into the tournament with stronger credentials.
He said, “So yes Nigeria remains one of the favourites for the Afcon after Morocco.”
Lookman, 28, has shown flashes of the form that made him one of Africa’s most exciting forwards. His performances in Serie A and the UEFA Champions League have improved in recent weeks, fuelling hopes that he can carry his progress into the national team setup.
The Super Eagles forward last scored for Nigeria on 7 September 2024, when he hit a brace in a 3-0 win against the Benin Republic during the AFCON qualifiers.
His goals that day underlined his importance in attack, and he remains central to Nigeria’s plans going into the competition.
Naija News reports that Lookman has been named in Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional squad for the tournament in Morocco, a sign that the national team still trusts in his talent.
