💔 "He Was Sad" — Peseiro Reveals How England's Rejection Pushed Ademola Lookman Into Nigeria's Arms

 

England's loss became Nigeria's greatest gain — and José Peseiro just pulled back the curtain on how it all happened.

Former Super Eagles head coach José Peseiro has opened up about the emotional journey that led Ademola Lookman — one of Africa's most electrifying attackers — to switch his allegiance from England to Nigeria, revealing that the decision came after years of confusion, disappointment, and heartbreak.

In a candid interview with Marca, Peseiro painted a picture of a young player who had done everything right — dominated England's youth ranks, won the U20 World Cup in 2017, progressed to the U21 squad — only to watch the senior call-up that should have come... never arrive.

"He was still quite young, but he frequently told me about how sad he felt. After winning the Under-20 World Cup in 2017 and moving up to the Under-21 team, England stopped inviting him to join the squad. He couldn't understand it."

The confusion was real. The frustration was deep. And eventually, Lookman had to face the painful truth: England didn't see him the way Nigeria would.

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Lookman had given his best years to the Three Lions' youth system. But when it mattered most, when the pathway to senior football should have opened, the door remained shut. No explanation. No clarity. Just silence.

"He thought he could have a future there, but in the end, he had to accept the situation."

So in February 2022, FIFA approved his switch — and Nigeria welcomed him with open arms. Since then, Lookman hasn't just played for the Super Eagles — he's thrived, directly contributing to 11 goals in just 13 matches (6 goals, 5 assists). He went on to become African Footballer of the Year, and last weekend, he made history as the first English-born player to feature in the Premier League, Serie A, Bundesliga, and La Liga after his blockbuster move to Atlético Madrid.

Peseiro believes this latest chapter is more than just a transfer — it's a statement.

"For Lookman, it's a challenge, and it's a big moment in his career because now he's reached one of the top clubs in Europe... and he can keep showing England that they made a mistake by not picking him for the senior team."

England had their chance. They chose not to take it. And now, every time Ademola Lookman takes the field in a Super Eagles jersey — or tears apart La Liga defenses in Atlético colors — it's a reminder of what they let slip away.

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💬 Was England wrong to overlook Ademola Lookman, or was Nigeria just the right fit all along? And how many more talents are slipping through England's fingers while waiting for a call that never comes? Let's talk about it! 🇳🇬🔥👇