USMNT star Folarin Balogun reveals surprising source of inspiration at Arsenal – as Monaco striker prepares for reunion with former team-mate

Two proven goalscorers spent time together at Emirates Stadium when Balogun was looking to make a step up from the academy ranks in north London and Lacazette was considered to be enough of a senior leader to take the captain’s armband at times. Lacazette hit 71 goals for the Gunners through 206 appearances – prior to returning to Lyon in 2022 – and his professionalism rubbed off on Balogun.

Balogun has told Monaco’s official website ahead of a meeting with Lyon in the French top-flight: “I’m happy to see him [Lacazette] again on Friday because he gave me advice when we were both at Arsenal, and I was still a young player. Last season we talked a lot together when we met. He has a lot of experience. He is a clinical striker in front of goal, a good finisher. He is also capable of taking up space and making a connection with his teammates. I was inspired by his character.”

Balogun came up against Lyon last season during a productive loan spell at Reims. He is now at Stade Louis II and ready to embrace the challenge of competing with fellow forwards such as Wissam Ben Yedder for regular game time. The United States international added: “When I arrived here, I knew Wissam’s status at AS Monaco and in France. I don’t take it as competition because I learn a lot from him by playing alongside him. I am very happy to be with him. It’s up to the coach to decide who plays and I have to be ready when he calls on me as a starter or as a substitute. I’m here to help the team and I don’t worry about this competition.”

Balogun has hit four goals for Monaco this season, while also enhancing his cap collection with the USMNT, and is expected to unlock further potential in his game with club and country as he begins to feel more settled on domestic and international stages.