The growth of US soccer seems to be on the right path. The development of soccer, especially at the grassroots level, is on the rise. New talents are emerging day by day on American turf. Moreover, young players aspire to make a name for their country and achieve whatever they can.
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The likes of Giovanni Reyna, Timothy Weah, and Tyler Adams have become household names for the USMNT. And just like that, there’s another talent who has taken over the headlines. Folarin Balogun is a name that has caught the attention of the soccer world. The Arsenal loanee is currently enjoying his life with Ligue 1 outfit, Reims. Moreover, fans expressed their delight with the young starlet who has been in tremendous form.
Fans react to US Soccer starlet
Balogun is in impressive form this season, as he has already scored 15 league goals in 25 Ligue 1 appearances. In fact, the player has impressed so much that soccer fans around the world can’t get hold of him. Especially, the USMNT fans so want him to exhibit the same form for his country.
You know what does make sense?
You playing for the USA 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
— Dan Gleisak (@dan_gleisak) March 7, 2023
What makes the most sense is your wearing Number 9 for the US of A brother! Let’s make it happen pic.twitter.com/Kce5bmB29s
— Depressed CFC Fan (@ShadyCobainNV) March 7, 2023
United States of America lil bro
— Florian Wirtz Enjoyer (@xab1ball) March 7, 2023
Balogun to the USMNT 🇺🇸 makes all the sense in the world.
— stateof_football (@St8ofFootball) March 7, 2023
It seems USMNT fans are desperate for the youngster to play for his country.
Yup it will also makes sense to play for USA since World Cup is host at home and you have opportunity to be starter 🇺🇸
— Ricamerica soccer 🇺🇸🇲🇽 (@RicamericaF) March 7, 2023
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— Gideon (@GideonSuth) March 7, 2023
Hey brother! I stopped by the stadium in Orlando to make sure it looks good for you! I’ve my accommodation booked already! Can’t wait to see your debut in the red, white and blue! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/RHOuDnKQLG
— Gregg Beerholder 🍺 (@MLShater) March 7, 2023
USA all day bro 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
— USKev (@KevU_S) March 7, 2023
Additionally, the 21-year-old has outshone some of the more prominent players in the league.
Already outshining world-class players
Folarin Balogun is showing no signs of stopping. The youngster has already outscored both Lionel Messi and Neymar in Ligue 1. Moreover, the player is currently competing for the French League’s golden boot against the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Ben Yedder, and Jonathan David.
After spending an impressive in-form month in February, the French league nominated Balogun for the “Player of the month” award. He is competing against Mbappe and Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo.
Folarin Balogun has always been keen on staying at Arsenal but his agent’s priority has been his playing time. He’ll consider a new contract if he plays more but nothing has been signed. [@FabrizioRomano] pic.twitter.com/CSiMr8EoaV
— AFTV (@AFTVMedia) January 7, 2021
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Besides this, the player is already on the transfer wishlist of several clubs across Europe, with Lazio and Newcastle being the interested parties. For now, the player is on loan in Reims after spending a loan spell at Middlesbrough.
The player has been a part of the Arsenal academy since 2008. Folarin has also represented the U-18 side of the United States, scoring two goals in four games. There is a possibility that he might even make a surprise return to Arsenal. However, the Gunners’ attack is loaded with the likes of Eddie Nketiah, Reiss Nelson, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli.
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Mikel Arteta also signed Leandro Trossard from Brighton in the January transfer window. Thus, Balogun would face tough competition for a starting spot at the Emirates. Nevertheless, it’s too early to discuss his transfer, as he’ll be looking to complete his season with Reims first. What do you make Balogun’s abilities? Do you want him to pledge his allegiance to the USMNT? Let us know in the comments below.