Arsenal starlet Folarin Balogun opts to switch from England to USA in international football
Arsenal forward Folarin Balogun's switch from England to the United States has been approved by FIFA.
The 21-year-old made the decision to chance allegiance having been snubbed by England boss Gareth Southgate.
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Balogun, who looks set to leave Arsenal permanently this summer, played for the US at under-18 level, before changing to England.
He is able to represent the USMNT having been born in Brooklyn, New York. Balogun moved to London when he was two years old.
FIFA rules enable players to switch national eligibility before making a competitive senior appearance at international level.
“My decision to represent the United States came together with my family,” Balogun said.
“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. To represent the United States means a lot, more than people would know.
"I’m very proud and honoured to have this opportunity, and I want to give everything I have to make our team successful.”
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“We are delighted that Folarin has chosen to represent the United States,” USMNT head coach Hudson said.
“Not only is he an extremely talented player, he’s also a good man who is going to add value to our national team both on and off the field at a time when the team is continuing to improve. It’s clear that he values his U.S. roots and we can’t wait for him to come in and be a part of the team.”
Balogun, who is also eligible to represent Nigeria, has spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Reims.
During his time in Ligue 1, the forward has netted 19 goals in 34 league appearances.
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He was called up to England’s under-21 squad for matches against France and Germany in March, but pulled out with a hamstring injury.
Balogun has recently been present in the US, having undergone 'discussions' with interim coach Anthony Hudson over his role.
England boss Southgate had previously revealed the player would have to be patient to get his chance in his Three Lions side.
“It is up to the player to weigh up where his heart feels,” Southgate said after March's international fixtures.
“Is he prepared to wait a little bit for an opportunity if he backs himself and feels he can push his way into our squad? Because anybody who has followed us will know that we will give young players a chance.
“So, we cannot go and give first-team call-ups to someone just because we don’t want them to go somewhere else.”
Balogun made four appearances for the US Under-18s in 2018, before representing England at U18, U20 and U21 level.
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