After a lengthy-decision making process, the United States men's national team has added a key piece for its future.
Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun will play internationally for the United States, according to a Tuesday morning report from The Athletic. Balogun, 21, chose to represent the United States over England.
Born in Brooklyn to Nigerian parents, Balogun grew up in London and came up through Arsenal's academy system. Eligible to play for all three nations, he has spent time with England's U-17, U-18, U-20 and U-21 teams, as well as the United States's U-18 team.
Balogun is currently on loan to Reims in France, where his 19 goals are tied for fifth in Ligue 1.
BREAKING: FIFA has approved Folarin Balogun's one-time switch to represent the US national team, FIFA has confirmed to The Athletic.
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) May 16, 2023
Balogun, 21, has 19 goals in 34 games on loan at Reims from Arsenal. He most recently was with England youth int'l set-up. pic.twitter.com/iEITZIIAea
Speculation had swirled for months around Balogun's international decision. FIFA allows player to switch national eligibility once if they have played three or fewer senior-level competitive matches before turning 21.
Balogun is now eligible to be called up for this summer's Gold Cup, which begins June 24 in the United States and Canada.
