Folarin Balogun: From Arsenal Loanee to Concacaf Nations League Champion
Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has been on a remarkable journey over the past few years. After a breakthrough season on loan at Reims, he has now helped the United States win the Concacaf Nations League. In an interview, Balogun said he definitely won’t go on loan again.
Balogun’s Arsenal Journey
Balogun, who was born in New York, signed a four-year Arsenal contract in 2021 but has only made two Premier League appearances since his senior debut in 2020. He spent the second half of the 2021-22 season on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough before joining French club Reims on loan in August 2022.
At Reims, Balogun scored 21 goals in a breakthrough season and was linked with Inter Milan, AC Milan and some Premier League clubs. With Gabriel Jesus as Arsenal’s first choice centre-forward since joining from Manchester City last summer, and Eddie Nketiah filling in when the Brazilian was ruled out for more than three months with a knee injury, Balogun’s loan spell was crucial for his development.
Concacaf Nations League Success
The US, who won the inaugural Concacaf Nations League in 2021, retained the title in Las Vegas as Chris Richards scored in the 12th minute and Balogun in the 34th. After the match, Balogun said: “It’s amazing. It’s a dream scenario for me. To be here now, the transition is amazing. I’m just overwhelmed with delight.”
Arsenal’s Future Plans
Arsenal are in talks to sign Chelsea forward Kai Havertz this summer. With Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah already at the club, Balogun’s future remains uncertain. He said: “I’m not sure [about] the discussions that are going to take place. I’m not sure what’s going to happen. But I’m just committed to now; I try to stay present. I obviously want to enjoy the moment with my team and my family. What I can say is that I definitely won’t go on loan again.”
Conclusion
Folarin Balogun has had a remarkable journey over the past few years. After a breakthrough season on loan at Reims, he has now helped the United States win the Concacaf Nations League. His future at Arsenal remains uncertain, but one thing is for sure – he definitely won’t go on loan again.