Arsenal Players

General Information

Folarin Balogun (born July 3, 2001) is a professional striker known for his pace, composure, and sharp finishing. A product of Arsenal’s renowned academy, Balogun represents the United States internationally and has emerged as a dynamic attacking force in European football.

Early Life
Born in New York City and raised in London, Balogun joined Arsenal’s Hale End Academy at the age of eight. Of Nigerian descent and eligible to play for England, Nigeria, and the USA, his international career generated early interest as his club reputation grew.

Arsenal Career (2020–2023)
Balogun signed his first professional contract with Arsenal in 2019 and made his senior debut in the 2020–21 UEFA Europa League. He scored his first senior goal against Molde, displaying his clinical instincts early on. Despite limited Premier League minutes, he continued to impress at youth and reserve levels with an outstanding goal-scoring record.

To accelerate his development, Balogun spent the second half of the 2021–22 season on loan at Middlesbrough, gaining valuable first-team experience. In 2022–23, he was loaned to French side Reims, where he truly broke out — scoring over 20 goals in Ligue 1 and becoming one of the league’s most prolific strikers.

Post-Arsenal Career
In August 2023, Balogun made a permanent move to AS Monaco. His decision to leave Arsenal followed a desire for regular top-flight football, and he continued to showcase his talents in Ligue 1, becoming a central figure in Monaco’s attack.

International Career
After representing England at youth levels, Balogun opted to play for the United States at senior level, making his debut in 2023. He scored in the CONCACAF Nations League Final, helping the USA lift the trophy and announcing himself as a major asset for the national team.

Playing Style
Balogun is a quick, agile striker with intelligent movement and excellent finishing in and around the box. He thrives on through balls and counter-attacks, with a poacher’s instinct and the composure to convert under pressure. His technical ability and positioning make him dangerous across various attacking systems.

Legacy
Though his time in Arsenal’s first team was brief, Balogun left the club having shown the promise that is now being fulfilled abroad. His journey reflects the growing number of Hale End graduates succeeding at elite European clubs.