Folarin Balogun poised for prominent role with USMNT at 2026 World Cup

Goal reports that Monaco striker Folarin Balogun, who committed to the USMNT in May 2023, is entering a World Cup year almost three years after joining the national team.

Born in Brooklyn and raised in London, Balogun came through Arsenal's academy, turned professional in 2019 and made his senior debut in 2020, recording 10 appearances and two Europa League goals for Arsenal between 2020 and 2022. He broke out at Reims in 2022 with 22 goals in 39 appearances, returned to Arsenal and then moved to Monaco in 2023. After missing the second half of last season and the USMNT's summer run with injuries, his third season at Monaco has been his strongest, with four Ligue 1 goals in 13 appearances (nine starts) this fall and three Champions League goals, while he has scored eight times in his first 23 USMNT caps, including a goal that helped win the 2023 CONCACAF Nations League final and two at the 2024 Copa America.

The USMNT recruited Balogun with the aim of finding a starting striker; he is regarded as likely to be the No. 9 this summer if he maintains his Monaco form, but a starting spot is not guaranteed given competition from Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright and Patrick Agyemang. Balogun's speed, intelligence and finishing make him a dynamic option, and he will carry clear expectations into the summer tournament.

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Sports, Folarin Balogun, Usmnt, Monaco, Arsenal, Reims