Balogun’s Journey: From Brooklyn to USMNT Striker

Folarin Balogun’s journey to the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) began in Brooklyn, New York, but it was brief. Just a month after his birth, Balogun’s family relocated to London, where he spent his formative years cultivating his passion for football.

From a young age, Balogun was devoted to Arsenal. He joined the club’s academy at the age of eight and quickly distinguished himself as one of the premier talents in the Gunners’ youth system. He signed his first professional contract in 2019 and made his debut the following year, amassing a total of ten appearances and scoring two goals in the Europa League during his tenure from 2020 to 2022.

In the summer of 2022, Balogun sought more playing time and made the move to Ligue 1, where his career truly flourished. During a single season at Reims, he scored an impressive 22 goals in 39 appearances, capturing global attention, including that of the USMNT, which actively pursued him following the 2022 World Cup. In May 2023, Balogun committed his international future to the United States.

Later that year, Balogun made a significant move at the club level as well. Upon returning to Arsenal after his successful stint at Reims, he expressed a strong desire to avoid another loan. With interest from several top clubs worldwide, he ultimately transferred to Monaco, marking a pivotal step in his career by joining a Champions League-caliber team.

Though expectations were high for Balogun upon joining Monaco, the transition proved to be challenging. However, this current season has undeniably been his most successful to date. After struggling with injuries that sidelined him for the latter part of last season and the USMNT’s summer competitions, he has made a remarkable return this fall. Although he has recorded a modest four goals in 13 Ligue 1 appearances thus far, his real impact has been felt in the Champions League, where he has scored three goals, helping to keep Monaco’s hopes alive after a difficult start.

Throughout his time at Monaco, Balogun has experienced fluctuations in his playing time for various reasons, but he now appears to have secured a consistent spot in the lineup, benefiting both himself and the team.

With high expectations upon his arrival, Balogun has consistently risen to the occasion, especially in critical moments. In his first 23 caps for the USMNT, he has scored eight goals, a figure that may seem modest but carries significant weight in context. His inaugural goal came during just his second appearance, contributing to the team’s victory in the 2023 CONCACAF Nations League final. He netted two goals at the 2024 Copa America, playing a crucial role in steering the U.S. away from a potential group-stage exit. Since returning from injury this fall, he has scored in three consecutive starts, as the U.S. heads into the new year with renewed momentum.

Although Balogun does not score in every match he plays for the USMNT, he has shown a knack for making an impact in high-stakes situations, a skill that will be invaluable at the World Cup. When the USMNT sought to recruit Balogun, their primary objective was to secure a starting striker. The uncertainty surrounding his position for the World Cup arises from increased competition, with Balogun’s emergence coinciding with the rise of players like Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright, and Patrick Agyemang, all vying for the same role.

Currently, Balogun seems poised to take on the No. 9 position this summer, particularly if he maintains his form with Monaco. His unique blend of speed, intelligence, and, most importantly, finishing ability renders him the most dynamic striker available, an asset the U.S. desperately needs as they approach the World Cup.

Given these circumstances, Balogun is set to enter the summer with considerable expectations—an experience he is all too familiar with.