Arsenal's golden boot, Balogun, has been transformed after being loaned out to Reims last summer, and has already scored 19 goals in Ligue 1 this season, setting a new record for the second-highest number of goals scored in a Ligue 1 debut since the 21st century, behind only Ibe in the 2012/13 season, when he scored 30 goals. Although Balogan was unseen by England national team manager Gareth Southgate, he ultimately chose a different path, officially announcing that he would play for the U.S. national team.
Born to Nigerian parents, Balogun was born in New York, USA and moved to England with his parents at the age of two, where he trained in the Arsenal youth camp. The 21-year old youngster was not utilized by Arsenal's first-team manager Mikel Arteta, and was loaned out to Reims again this season after being loaned out to Championship side Middlesbrough last season. Balogun has been in fine form for Reims and is fifth in the Ligue 1 scoring charts with 19 goals, which is not easy for a young player.
Balogun has represented England U21 and other national teams at several age levels, but has never been promoted to the national team. He had expressed interest in playing for Nigeria, but ultimately decided to represent the United States. This decision was approved by FIFA, completing what is known as a "transfer".
U.S. Soccer released a statement warmly welcoming Balogun to the team and anticipating that interim head coach Anthony Heinsohn will call up Balogun for the upcoming CONCACAF quarterfinals tournament in June. It's worth noting that the U.S. is one of the hosts of the 2026 World Cup, where Balogun could potentially face off against England in a World Cup match.
