Arsenal youngster Folarin Balogun has received a message from Thierry Henry during his loan spell with Ligue 1 outfit Stade Reims.
Balogun joined Reims on-loan in the summer transfer window after turning down interest from rival Premier League clubs. The 21-year-old has started the season brightly, scoring five goals and providing a further two assists in just six games for the French side.
The arrival of Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City would have seen Balogun's opportunities for Arsenal limited this season, with the youngster keen to play regular first team football and continue his development. Gunners legend Henry has now sent the talented forward a message of support with Balogun setting himself three key targets during his loan spell in France.
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During an interview with Prime Video Sport in France, Balogun was shown a message from Henry with the French icon asking the 21-year-old what his goals are for the 2022/23 season. Henry said: "Hello big man, how are you? What are your goals this season?
"See you soon and hopefully you can be like this man [Mohamed Ali]. All the very best in that, ciao."
Balogun reacted to the clip by admitting Henry is a 'special guy' before answering the Arsenal legend's question. The Arsenal loanee responded: "I've never seen this before you know, I'm shocked, I can't believe this.
"For me, Thierry is a special guy. He's done so much in his career, but my target is to get 10 goals, five assists and to learn French so hopefully I can do this before I leave.
"If I reach it, I will change them again. They're my goals."
Balogun has already scored five goals in his first six Ligue 1 appearances for Reims, along with a further two assists taking him halfway towards his initial targets early on in the season. Should the youngster continue his brilliant form and performances, he will be changing his targets very soon as he looks to impress during his loan spell with Reims before returning to the Emirates Stadium next summer.
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