Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun tells Mikel Arteta to play him or sell him after breakthrough season
The striker on Sunday scored his first goal for USA
rsenal striker Folarin Balogun has no plans to go on loan again this summer as he looks to resolve his future.
Balogun spent last season on loan at Stade de Reims and scored 21 goals in Ligue 1, which has attracted clubs in the Premier League and around Europe.
The striker continued his fine form overnight, scoring his first goal since switching international allegiance from England to the USA last month in a 2-0 win over Canada to win the Concacaf Nations League.
Balogun has two years left on his contract at Arsenal and either wants to be integrated into the first team or sold in a permanent deal.
“What I can say is that I definitely won’t go on loan again,” Balogun said. “I’m not sure [about] the discussions that are going to take place, I’m not sure what’s going to happen.
“But I’m just committed to now, I try to stay present. I obviously want to enjoy the moment with my team and my family.”
Balogun is a product of Arsenal’s academy and he had represented England at various age-group levels before declaring for the USA.
The striker, who was born in New York, has been fast-tracked into the USA’s senior side after being courted for several years.
Folarin Balogun scored for USA last night.
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He has made an immediate impact by helping the USA retain the Concacaf Nations League, which was launched in 2021.
“It’s amazing. It’s amazing. I mean, it’s a dream scenario for me. To be here now, the transition is amazing. I’m just overwhelmed with delight,” said Balogun.
“I think the thing that surprised me the most was just the actual talent in this group.
“I think there are so many players who are going to go on to have top careers, who are all so young, including me.”