Balogun Returns to USMNT After Monaco Call-Up

Folarin Balogun, the U.S. men’s national team striker, has been registered to play for Monaco in the UEFA Conference League. His inclusion in the squad follows a series of failed transfer attempts to Everton and a lack of playing time at Monaco earlier in the season.

Monaco initially left Balogun out of their Conference League squad because a move to Everton seemed imminent. However, the transfer collapsed twice on Deadline Day, with Balogun ultimately rejecting the offer due to medical concerns raised by Everton.

After failing to secure a new club, Balogun remained at Monaco. He has since returned to the pitch and scored his first goal of the season in a 3–1 defeat against Paris FC, marking a potential turning point in his form.

Following his goal, Balogun was added to Monaco’s Conference League squad and included in the U.S. national team’s 25-man roster for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals against Haiti. This marks his return to the U.S. squad after a two-month absence due to off-field controversies.

Balogun’s recent performances have been limited to substitute appearances for Monaco, but his goal and subsequent call-up to the U.S. team signal a possible resurgence. However, he now faces stiff competition from younger forwards like Justin Ellis, Julian Hall, and Cavan Sullivan, who have impressed in recent friendlies.

With internal competition heating up, Balogun must deliver in the Nations League tie against Haiti to re-establish himself as the U.S. team’s top striker option. At 25, he has the experience and talent to compete with the emerging talents in the squad.