In a major decision that has sent ripples through the football world, Arsenal star Folarin Balogun has chosen to represent the United States on the international stage. The 20-year-old forward had been eligible to play for Nigeria, England, and the USA, having been born to Nigerian parents in the USA and raised in England.
The news was broken by football transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, who tweeted on Tuesday that Balogun had finally made his decision. “Breaking, huge news for the United States. Arsenal star Folarin Balogun has finally decided to represent USMNT – he will switch allegiance to USA,” Romano wrote. “Balogun took his time but the decision has been made. No England; he will represent the USA. Official soon. Here we go.”
Balogun’s decision is a significant boost for the US national team, which has been steadily improving in recent years. The young forward has been in impressive form for Arsenal’s youth teams, scoring 38 goals in 41 appearances, and has also made a handful of first-team appearances this season.
Balogun’s decision is also a blow to Nigeria and England, both of whom were reportedly keen to secure his services. The Nigerian Football Federation had been in talks with Balogun for several months, while the English FA had also expressed interest in the young striker.
Balogun’s decision to represent the USA is not entirely surprising, given his strong ties to the country. He was born in New York City and spent the first few years of his life in the USA before moving to England with his family. He has also represented the USA at youth level, playing for the U-18 and U-20 teams.
Balogun’s decision to represent the USA is the latest in a string of high-profile players choosing to play for the US national team. In recent years, the likes of Sergiño Dest, Gio Reyna, and Weston McKennie have all chosen to represent the USMNT, despite being eligible for other countries.
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The news of Balogun’s decision has been met with excitement from US fans, who are eager to see the young striker in action for the national team. Balogun’s pace, skill, and eye for goal make him an exciting prospect, and he could be a key player for the US in the years to come.
For Balogun, the decision to represent the USA is a significant step in his career. He has been highly regarded at Arsenal for several years and is seen as one of the club’s brightest prospects. With his international future now settled, Balogun can focus on continuing his development and making a name for himself at the highest level of the game.
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The official announcement of Balogun’s decision is expected to be made soon, and fans will be eagerly awaiting his first appearance in a USA shirt. With the 2022 World Cup just around the corner, Balogun could be a key player for the US as they look to make an impact on the global stage.
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