From Arsenal to Monaco via USMNT! Why the ‘journey don’t stop’ for Folarin Balogun in stunning rise to prominence

The 22-year-old was searching for a professional spark prior to linking up with Reims on loan in the 2022-23 campaign. He hit 22 goals while in France, earning him plenty of praise and senior international recognition with the United States. Balogun also secured a big-money transfer away from Arsenal, with Monaco taking him back to Ligue 1.

It has been quite the ride for Balogun, with so much packed into 12 memorable months, but the ambitious frontman is determined to ensure that he remains on a path that leads to the very top of the game. His friends and family will be helping him on that journey, with some familiar faces joining him at Monaco’s latest fixture against Montpellier.

Balogun was not on target in a 2-0 win for his current employers, but he enjoyed having friends by his side and has made a point that his “journey” will not be allowed to slow down as he seeks to become a talismanic presence for club and country.

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Balogun has registered four goals for Monaco this season, but is still finding his feet at Stade Louis II after completing a summer move that prevented him from taking in a pre-season programme alongside new team-mates. He has plenty to look forward to with Monaco and the USMNT in 2024, with a European qualification bid set to be complemented by quests for CONCACAF Nations League and Copa America glory.