Why did Folarin Balogun choose the USMNT over England?

Folarin Balogun is set to complete a switch to represent the USMNT. FIFA has confirmed the 21-year-old’s switch of allegiance from England to The Athletic.

Balogun played for England at U17 level but later represented the USA U18 side four times in 2018 before switching back to England’s underage setup.

The Brooklyn-born star moved to the UK at the age of two but is now set to feature for the US once again.

The forward’s decision will be a significant boost for the country, who will strengthen their forward line ahead of the 2026 World Cup on home soil.

With no competitive senior appearances for England, due to FIFA’s rules, Balogun remained eligible to switch his allegiance to the USMNT.

“My decision to represent the United States, it came together with my family,” he said. “We decided it would be the right thing for me, to represent the country I was born in.

“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 honored to have this opportunity, and I want to give everything I have to make our team successful.”

On loan from Arsenal

Arsenal forward Balogun is currently enjoying a loan spell at French side Reims. He has 19 goals in 34 games for Will Still’s team in Ligue 1 this season.