Folarin Balogun, an Arsenal striker who has been playing on loan with Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims, has decided to represent the United States. FIFA recently granted approval for him to switch his international allegiance from England.
Balogun previously played for England at the Under-21 level. He was born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in England, but is also eligible for Nigeria due to his parents’ nationality.
Balogun is expected to play for the U.S. team at the CONCACAF Nations League Finals in the coming month.
This season, Balogun has scored 19 goals in 34 Ligue 1 matches for Reims.
FIFA has permitted Balogun to make a one-time change of association.
”My decision to represent the United States came together with my family,” said Balogun. “In the end, it became a no-brainer, but for sure it’s just something I wanted to do, and it feels like I’m at home here.”