Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has shared insights on the moment he received the news of his Ballon d’Or nomination.

The 26-year-old was the only African star to make the 30-man shortlist released by the French Football Magazine for the prestigious award.

The Super Eagles forward will be competing with the likes of Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Rodri for the coveted prize.

Reflecting on the moment he received the news, the former Leicester City loanee disclosed that he was on the bus returning from training when he received the news.

He added that Calvin Bassey was super elated when he broke the news to him.

“I was on the bus on the way back from training. I saw our handle posted that I have been nominated for the Ballon d’Or. I was a bit surprised.

“Obviously, I am in a room with Calvin Bassey and when I told him, he was just jumping up and down. He was very happy and was like, ‘You don’t really understand.’ That was when I took it in.”

Lookman had a stellar season with Atalanta last season, scoring a historic hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.

The Nigerian international also netted 17 goals and provided 10 assists across all competitions for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side.