Former Ghana national team manager Claude Le Roy has expressed concerns over Ademola Lookman’s current form with the Nigeria national team.

Speaking to Canal +, Le Roy said: "Lookman, when he comes back to the Nigeria national team, is not quite the same player anymore."

Le Roy noted signs of improvement at club level, stating: "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."

Despite his comments, Le Roy maintained confidence in Nigeria’s chances at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, adding: "So yes Nigeria remains one of the favourites for the Afcon after Morocco."

The 28-year-old Lookman has been gradually rediscovering his form with Italian club Atalanta, performing in both Serie A and the UEFA Champions League.

His recent performances at the club level come ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he will be aiming to maintain consistency for the Super Eagles.

Lookman’s last goals for Nigeria came on 7 September 2024, when he scored a brace in a 3–0 victory over Benin Republic during the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

The former Africa Footballer of the Year remains a key figure for the national team and has been included in coach Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional roster for the upcoming tournament in Morocco.

As Lookman works to regain the form that earned him accolades both in Africa and Europe, all eyes will be on his performances in the lead-up to and during the Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria hopes to challenge as one of the favourites.

Wale Adejumo