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Folarin BalogunAmerican and English football player
Date of Birth: 03.07.2001
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Arsenal Breakout
- Loan Spells
- International Career
- United States Debut and Success
- Achievements
Early Life and Career
Folarin Balogun was born in New York City, USA, on July 3, 2001. However, he moved to London with his family at the age of two. Balogun began his football journey at Aldersbrook before joining Arsenal's academy at the age of 10.
Arsenal Breakout
In the 2019/20 season, Balogun's prolific form for Arsenal's U18s saw him score 28 goals in 28 appearances. His impressive displays earned him his first-team debut for Arsenal in the UEFA Europa League against Dundalk on October 29, 2020.
On November 26, 2020, Balogun notched his maiden professional goal in the Europa League against Molde. He continued to make sporadic appearances for Arsenal, while establishing himself as a key player for their youth teams.
Loan Spells
In January 2022, Balogun joined Championship side Middlesbrough on loan until the end of the season. He made his debut on January 15 in a home fixture against Reading, coming on as a substitute in the 67th minute.
For the 2022/23 campaign, Balogun was loaned to French club Reims. He marked his debut on August 7 against Marseille, scoring a goal as a substitute in a Ligue 1 encounter.
International Career
Balogun represented England at the U17, U18, U20, and U21 levels. In 2018, he also played four matches for the United States U18s. He was eligible to play for England, the USA, and Nigeria.
In May 2023, Balogun completed a switch to American citizenship, approved by FIFA. He was called up to the United States training camp ahead of the 2022/23 CONCACAF Nations League Finals in June 2023.
United States Debut and Success
Balogun made his senior international debut for the United States in the CONCACAF Nations League semi-final against Mexico on June 15, 2023. In the final against Canada on June 18, he scored his first goal for his adopted country, helping the USA secure their second consecutive CONCACAF Nations League title. Balogun was named to the tournament's Best XI.
Achievements
United States- CONCACAF Nations League: 2022/23
Individual
- CONCACAF Nations League Best XI: 2022/23
