Exclusive: Lookman's FIFA Best Snub 'Embarrassing', Vinicius Backed to Outshine Messi and Rodri

Former Nigeria international Sunday Abe has called Ademola Lookman's exclusion from the Best FIFA Men's Player nominations 'embarrassing' and expressed concerns that the award's credibility could be at risk.

The Atalanta star has been in exceptional form during the period in question, playing a key role in helping the Serie A side clinch the Europa League title with a hat-trick in the final.

On the international stage, he was crucial to Nigeria’s runners-up finish at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d'Ivoire.

Despite finishing in 14th place at the Ballon d'Or 2024, he did not make the 11-player shortlist for the prestigious prize, which was revealed by the football governing body. Lionel Messi, Federico Valverde, and Florian Wirtz were among those who made the cut.

FIFA GOT IT WRONG ON LOOKMAN’S OMISSION

The Sunshine Stars legend was among many who were completely baffled by the former England youth international's omission from the podium, arguing that the 27-year-old deserves recognition based on his impressive stats in 2024.

"I find it embarrassing that Lookman was not included in the shortlist for the Best FIFA Men's Player award," Abe told SportsBoom.com. "I still can't understand the reasoning behind the selection process, especially considering how well the Super Eagles star performed for both his club and country.

"While it's true that Nigeria didn't win the Africa Cup of Nations, you can't overlook his goals and overall performance in Cote d’Ivoire, as well as his impressive contributions for Atalanta.

"Moreover, Lookman ranked higher than [Federico] Valverde and [Florian] Wirtz in the 2024 Ballon d’Or standings, so how did they make the list ahead of him? Something doesn’t add up, and only FIFA can provide clarity. I think they made a mistake.

"I worry that such decisions might undermine the credibility of the award in the future. That said, his exclusion doesn’t diminish the fact that he’s had an outstanding year."

NIGERIAN FOOTBALL ASCENDING AGAIN

Although Lookman missed out on the FIFA Men’s Player of the Year shortlist, he will be aiming for a spot in the FIFA Best XI among forwards, while Nigeria's stand-in captain, William Troost-Ekong, hopes to secure a place in the defenders' category.

Paul Onuachu’s goal in a Turkish Super Lig match against Konyaspor has been nominated for the Puskas Award, while former Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala is a contender for the Marta Award.

Abe believes that having four Nigerians nominated for the prestigious award is a clear indication that Nigerian football is on the rise once again. However, he notes that it would be even more fulfilling to see the Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 World Cup and secure a fourth AFCON title in Morocco.

"I view that as a mere consolation [for Lookman], and honestly, I believe he should have made the main list," he continued. "A big congratulations to Troost-Ekong for being shortlisted for Defender of the Year. There's no doubt about his inclusion, especially considering his performance in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

"Having [four] Nigerian players nominated reflects the quality within the Super Eagles squad. It’s a sign that we’re returning to our rightful place in global football, especially compared to the times when our players were overlooked for nominations.

"My hope is that these nominations inspire Augustine Eguavoen’s team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and secure victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations."

VINICIUS OVER RODRI AND MESSI?

The outcry when Spain and Manchester City star Rodri won the Ballon d'Or over Brazil and Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior was driven by a sense of unfairness, as many believed Vinicius had a standout year with his crucial performances for both club and country.

With both players facing off again for the FIFA award, the former Nigeria international has predicted where the pendulum will swing in January.

Abe stated: "We're set to witness another Rodri versus Vinicius Junior showdown, but I have a strong feeling the Brazilian will have the last laugh this time, as a response to the outcry that followed the Ballon d'Or.

"[Lionel] Messi’s nomination is largely due to Argentina's Copa America victory, but I don't see him finishing in the top three, let alone winning.

"I expect players like [Erling] Haaland, [Jude] Bellingham, and [Kylian] Mbappe to finish ahead of him. However, we'll all keep our fingers crossed and see where the pendulum swings on the big day."