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Arsenal Star, Folarin Balogun Set to Snub Nigeria for USA National Team

The Super Eagles may be unable to sign Arsenal loan striker Folarin Balogun, as US caretaker coach Anthony Hudson has acknowledged that American authorities have talked with the player amid reports that he may devote his international future to the US.

 

Recall that Balogun’s international future has lately been a matter of contention when England manager Gareth Southgate snubbed him during a call-up to the national team despite the fact that the on-loan Reims player is the second highest goal scorer in Ligue one with Reims.

Balogun was born in New York and relocated to England when he was two years old, but his parents are Nigerian.

 

He could represent the United States, England, and Nigeria, where his parents were born.

 

Balogun has 17 goals this season in Ligue 1 while on loan at Reims, and he is eligible to play for England, the United States of America, and Nigeria.

The striker was recently called up to play for England’s Under-21 team but had to pull out due to injury.

 

This week, it was revealed that Balogun had been observed in Florida, where the US has been practicing for Friday’s CONCACAF Nations League game in Grenada.

On a video chat with journalists on Thursday, March 23, Hudson said that Balogun had met with US team officials this week.

“As I’ve said before, we’ve had dialogue,” Hudson said. “We’ve spoken. He’s out here having a bit of a break and then some training, and we’ve had some discussions.

“I think it’s been good because it’s been an opportunity for us just to share about our program and who we are and what we do and that’s it. I hope we get the chance to speak with him again.

“It’s been good and I know a few of the guys have spoken to him as well.”

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