As the league games halt for the international break, there are some injury casualties for the several national teams. Spain’s Dani Carvajal suffered a nasty ACL injury, which will keep him out for some time. Normally, it’s the other way around when players come back from national camps after suffering a knock. Therefore, Mauricio Pochettino couldn’t wish for a worse start, as his star player, Folarin Balogun, has fresh injury concerns.

Leading the line from the front, Folarin Balogun will miss Pochettino’s first game as a USMNT manager with a serious injury. Although it didn’t look severe initially, reports showed Balogun will miss soccer games in the future. Reports suggest that Folarin Balogun may be sidelined for a few weeks due to a dislocated shoulder on his left side. Medical experts will perform additional tests to evaluate the severity of the injury and initiate the recovery process.

It comes off as a significant blow for USMNT with the striker finding form in recent matches. Hence, Mauricio Pochettino would need to look deep into his squad to find the perfect fit. The Star and Stripes will play Panama and Mexico in the upcoming friendlies. It would be the first match for Pochettino to mark his stamp on the proceedings.

For Folarin Balogun, he misses the game while being on top form. The player has three goals in six appearances in Ligue 1. He also played a crucial role in Monaco’s success against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League. The striker left the pitch after scoring in Monaco’s match against Rennes. He scored in the 22nd minute to give them a lead as his team won the match. Yet, injuries have taken a toll on the young striker.

Folarin Balogun slowly becoming USMNT’s go-to man

Despite getting a shoulder injury, he had some niggling injuries in the past. He had a hamstring injury forcing him to miss some games last season. Despite those injuries, he remains a key prospect and the leading man for the USMNT. The former Arsenal striker could play a key role in scoring goals for Pochettino with his pace and off-the-ball movement.

Becoming a clinical striker assisted Balogun in spearheading the USMNT from the front. He has 5 goals and 4 assists in 17 appearances and has an impact in most matches. With Christian Pulisic on the wings, he developed a telepathic understanding with the AC Milan player as they combined well. Pochettino could use this in his first match but will miss the services of the Monaco man.

We could see Ricardo Pepi playing down the middle for Mauricio Pochettino’s first game in charge. He could score goals, and suddenly, Poch has two brilliant options up front. Who do you think should replace Balogun?