The American-born striker that has more Ligue 1 goals than Mbappé, Messi and Neymar Jr

Folarin Balogun was born in New York City, but he is representing England at youth international level. When he was two-years-old his Nigeria born parents decided to leave the United States and started a life in London, where he grew up. The 21-year-old joined the Arsenal academy and signed his first professional contract in February 2019.

The American-British striker made his senior debut in the Europa League on October 29, 2020 and scored his first goal one month later against Molde in the same tournament. Due to the lack of minutes with the Gunners, Balogun was sent on a season-long loan to Ligue 1 side Club Reims, where he has been a goal scoring machine.

More goals than the PSG strikers

Folarin Balogun is having a breakout season in France’s top tier and after 20 appearances he has found the back of the net 14 times and provided two assists. The American-born striker has more goals than all of Paris Saint-Germain strikers in Ligue 1 so far this season: Kylian Mbappé (13), Lionel Messi (9) and Neymar (12).

On February 1, The 21-year-old striker scored a hat-trick in Stade Reims 4-2 home win over Lorient. Balogun started his count by scoring from the penalty spot on the stroke of half-time and he came back for more in the second half. In the 61st minute, the striker was inside of the box and shot to the near post to give the home side the lead.

Balogun completed his hat-trick with a stunning first-time volley to give Reims the 4-2 win and the three points. This was a much needed result for them because they are trying to avoid relegation and they remain in 11th place in the standings with 29 points after 21 matchdays.