Ademola Lookman’s historic performance in the Europa League final has left Everton fans with a sense of regret, wondering what could have been if he had stayed at the club. Lookman’s talent was evident from the start, but his stint at Everton was marked by instability and a lack of trust from his managers.
Lookman’s debut goal against Manchester City in 2017 was a glimpse of his potential, but he only started 14 games before being sold to RB Leipzig in 2018. His time at Everton was marked by public criticism from manager Ronald Koeman and a lack of consistency in his playing time.
Despite his struggles, Lookman’s talent was evident, and he has since flourished at RB Leipzig and Atalanta. His Europa League-winning hat-trick was a testament to his growth and development as a player.
In an interview with the Liverpool Echo in 2020, former Everton scout Damian Matthew reflected on Lookman’s struggles at the club, citing his late development and lack of football education as a grassroots player. Matthew said: “I felt for Ademola because he is an out-and-out forward player and he needs to play with a striker. But he had to play wide and managers play these systems, which I understand. He came in from grassroots football, at 16, and he hasn’t had that same football education. The lads he played with would’ve had four or five years of that development over Ademola. And so it is really important that you judge that player on what he is, where he’s come from and what he’s done so far.”
Lookman himself has acknowledged his growth and development as a player, saying: “I’ve always had the confidence in my ability. In the past two years I’ve been able to take my game to a new level and show it on a more consistent basis. Maybe it could have come earlier but it’s come now. I’m pleased with the progress I’ve made but this is just the beginning. I hope for more nights like this.”
Returning to Everton could be a good option for Lookman, as the club is in need of a talented winger and Lookman has unfinished business at Goodison Park. With a more stable management and a clear playing style, Lookman could thrive at Everton and help the club achieve success in the Premier League.
Moreover, Lookman’s experience and maturity would be an asset to the team, and his ability to play with a striker would be beneficial to the club’s attacking style. His return would also be a welcome addition to the squad, and his talent and work ethic would be an inspiration to the younger players.
In conclusion, Ademola Lookman’s historic performance in the Europa League final is a reminder of what could have been if he had stayed at Everton. His talent and growth as a player are evident, and returning to Everton could be a good option for both the club and the player.