USA striker Folarin Balogun, a former player of Arsenal, had a solid 2026 World Cup debut game as he scored a brace in the USA's 4-1 win over Paraguay. His intelligent movement, sharp finishing, and composure in front of goal once again highlighted why he is regarded as one of American soccer’s most exciting attacking talents.
Yet only a few years ago, Balogun was viewed as one of Arsenal’s brightest academy prospects. So why did Mikel Arteta and Arsenal decide to sell him?
Balogun’s Journey from Arsenal Wonderkid to Monaco Star
Born in New York and raised in London, Balogun joined Arsenal’s famed Hale End academy and quickly developed a reputation as a prolific goalscorer. He made his senior debut for Arsenal in 2020 and was widely tipped to become the club’s next breakthrough striker.
However, opportunities in the first team were limited. Arsenal already had several attacking options competing for central roles, including Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah, Kai Havertz, and later Leandro Trossard as a false-nine option. With Arteta building a team capable of challenging for major honors, regular minutes were difficult to guarantee.
Balogun spent time on loan at Middlesbrough before enjoying a spectacular breakthrough campaign with French side Reims during the 2022-23 season. He scored 21 Ligue 1 goals, attracting interest from clubs across Europe and significantly increasing his market value.
Upon returning to Arsenal, Balogun made it clear that he wanted consistent first-team football rather than another loan spell. Arsenal faced a difficult decision. While the club rated his talent highly, they already had established attacking options and were reluctant to promise him the starting role he desired.
As a result, Arsenal accepted a deal worth around €40 million from Monaco in the summer of 2023. It was a transfer that made sense for all parties. Arsenal generated a substantial fee for a player with limited first-team experience, while Balogun secured the opportunity to become a regular starter at a top European club.
What Makes Balogun Special?
Balogun is a modern center forward blessed with pace, intelligent movement, and strong finishing ability. He thrives when attacking space behind defensive lines and is comfortable using either foot. His ability to make clever runs and stretch defenses makes him particularly dangerous in transition.
Unlike some strikers who need constant service, Balogun can influence games through movement alone. His performances for Monaco and the USMNT have shown a player capable of leading the line at a high level while still having room for further development.
A Transfer That Worked for Everyone
Looking back, the decision appears to have benefited both Arsenal and Balogun.
Arsenal continued their rise under Arteta, winning the Premier League title and establishing themselves as one of Europe’s strongest teams. The funds received for Balogun helped support the club’s long-term squad-building strategy.
Meanwhile, Balogun has flourished in France. He has become a key figure for Monaco and was even named the club’s 2025-26 Player of the Season after another impressive campaign.
At just 24 years old, Balogun still has plenty of time to reach an even higher level. Arsenal, meanwhile, look well-positioned to compete for more major trophies in the years ahead. While the striker may have left North London, his World Cup heroics are proof that he remains a player capable of proving doubters wrong and perhaps earning a move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs in the future.
