Folarin Balogun’s Journey to the USMNT

Folarin Balogun's Journey to the USMNT

Source: BroBible

Summary

Folarin Balogun, a 25-year-old US men’s national team striker, was named in the starting line-up against Belgium in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16. Born in Brooklyn, Balogun grew up in London and played for Arsenal before moving to AS Monaco in 2023. He was eligible to play for three national teams: the US, England, and Nigeria. The US recruitment effort included invitations from the New York Yankees and Orlando Magic, as well as outreach from key American players.


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Balogun’s birth story is a unique one, involving an airline employee and a pregnant mother. He grew up in London, played for Arsenal, and now plays for AS Monaco. The US recruitment effort was intense, with invitations from sports teams and outreach from key players. Balogun’s eligibility for three national teams made him a hot commodity. Born in Brooklyn, but made in London, Balogun’s journey to the USMNT was a long one. He’s now a breakout star in the 2026 World Cup.


Author: Evan Null