‘Not a good thing’ - USMNT star Folarin Balogun in ‘complicated’ admission after run of one goal in 11 at Monaco

The 22-year-old striker starred in French football last season, hitting 22 efforts during a productive loan spell at Reims. Those exploits earned him a permanent transfer from Arsenal to Monaco, but the United States international has found the going a little tougher in Ligue 1 this time around.

Balogun last found the target on November 24 and has said of his lack of end product in the final third: “For me, as an attacker, it is not a good thing. It makes things more complicated for you. For me, this period of not scoring as much is about playing simply and helping the team in different ways. I understand the quality that I have, and it isn’t something that is making me doubt myself.”

Quizzed on how he intends to get his spark back, Balogun added: “It is about remaining calm. I’m sure won’t go the rest of my career without scoring! It’s not something I’m focusing on. I’ll get my chance to score sooner rather than later and I’m sure the rhythm will then continue. I’ve seen it happen to other top players in their careers so it’s not a shock. It’s a great opportunity for me to learn how to handle myself in moments like this and I’m sure it’ll make me stronger.”

Monaco will be back in action when facing Rodez in the French Cup on Saturday, with an outing against second-tier opposition presenting Balogun with an opportunity to get back on the goal trail and rebuild any fading confidence.