Folarin Balogun

Folarin Jerry Balogun, a professional soccer player, was born on July 3, 2001, in New York City, USA. Born to Nigerian parents, Folarin holds eligibility to play for the United States, England, and Nigeria internationally. He would later become known for his prolific goal-scoring abilities and playing as a forward. Raised in England, he joined Arsenal's youth academy at a young age.

On September 19, 2019, Folarin Balogun made his professional debut for Arsenal in a Europa League match against Eintracht Frankfurt. He came on as a substitute in a game that ended in a 3-0 victory for Arsenal. This marked a significant milestone in Balogun's career as he began to make his transition into senior professional football, showcasing his potential as a forward.

Folarin Balogun signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal on April 26, 2021. The contract extension was a pivotal moment, ensuring that the promising young forward would remain with the club amid interest from other teams. This development underscored Arsenal's belief in Balogun's potential and commitment to developing their homegrown talent.

Folarin Balogun joined Middlesbrough on loan from Arsenal on January 12, 2022, for the remainder of the 2021-2022 season. The move was designed to give Balogun much-needed first-team experience, allowing him to develop his skills and gain valuable playing time in a competitive environment. Balogun's performance during this period showcased his potential to contribute at a high level.

Folarin Balogun received his first call-up to the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) for the September 2022 international window. This was a significant development considering Balogun's eligibility to represent multiple countries. The call-up represented an important opportunity for Balogun to showcase his international potential and make a mark on the international stage.

On January 31, 2023, Folarin Balogun transferred to French club Stade de Reims on loan for the remainder of the 2022-2023 season. The move to Ligue 1 was another crucial step in Balogun's development, offering him regular first-team football in one of Europe's top leagues. Balogun's form in France helped raise his profile as a talented young striker.

Folarin Balogun scored his first hat-trick in Ligue 1 on October 8, 2023, while playing for Stade de Reims. This remarkable achievement highlighted Balogun's ability and confidence in front of goal, further establishing him as a promising striker in European football. His performance drew attention from several top clubs across Europe.