'It's important to leave your mark' - Monaco striker Folarin Balogun eager to show value to USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino

After dealing with injuries throughout the 2024-25 campaign, U.S. international Folarin Balogun finally has his chance to work under national team manager Mauricio Pochettino. The striker is eager to make an impression in his first camp under the USMNT coach.

"I think with Mauricio coming in, the objective was clear that he wanted to bring the group forward," Balogun told reporters. "So as players, it's no surprise for us to be competing for places and positions. I think it's something we've done all our careers, and everyone wants to make an impression, and I think that's just natural. [The World Cup] is such a big competition coming in 10 months, it's important to leave your mark."

Balogun had some initial struggles after committing to the USMNT, but was one of the few bright spots during the 2024 Copa America. Overall, he has 17 caps and five goals for the U.S.

After a calf injury ruled him out of Monaco's first fixture, Balogun has featured in the club's last two matches - scoring one goal. He insisted his persistent injury issues are now behind him.

"I feel good. Injuries are behind me and yeah, it was a tough period, but I think every athlete goes through that at some stage," he said. "And yeah, first impressions of Mauricio and his staff, they've been really good for me. They've embraced me, made me feel welcome. And the feedback I've got from the other players and stuff, they're great people and everyone's delighted to have them here, so it's all good."

Last season, Balogun was limited to just 13 league appearances, scoring four goals. He hasn't featured for the national team since the Copa America. He admits he will have to earn his spot back after being away.

"I mean, you can't do much if you're not in the field. But yeah, overall I do believe that now I'm in a good shape and in a good way," he said. "And yes, it's something I've been doing all my career, fighting for my position and fighting to get in teams. So I believe that's a balance that comes more naturally to me."

Balogun said he's trying not to overthink and be intuitive on the pitch.

"I think it's important to make an impression, but yeah, of course that's part of the psychology to not overdo it because things will just become more complicated," Balogun said. "The harder you try, sometimes the more difficult it is. When I wasn't getting called into camp, obviously, I knew the priority for me was to be healthy.

"I think everybody's playing football at a high level as athletes and as footballers. As attackers especially, it's our job to look for creativity and to look for different ways to break down the offenses. So for sure, I don't think it'll take too long and I'm looking forward to playing with everyone."

Balogun last scored for the U.S. in a 2-1 loss to Panama in the Copa America. His first goal came in a 2-0 win over Canada in 2023.

The U.S. will take on South Korea on Saturday in New Jersey, and will face Japan three days later in Columbus, Ohio.