Monaco striker Folarin Balogun was added to the U.S. men’s national team roster for September friendlies against South Korea and Japan.
Balogun, 24, joins Josh Sargent and Damion Downs as the USA’s three center forwards. (A hamstring injury forced Brian White out of the squad.) He has not played for Mauricio Pochettino because of injury problems. His first appearance for Monaco of the 2025-26 season was 90 minutes on Sunday against Lille (1-0 loss).
Balogun won 2023-24 Concacaf Nations League titles at the start of his USMNT career and was the national team’s best player at during its poor showing at the 2024 Copa America. But he is one of six players in camp next week who have never played for Pochettino.
Balogun’s first season at Monaco was disappointing, but he was starting to take on a big role at one of France’s most ambitious team when he dislocated his shoulder in October 2024. It required surgery in December 2024 and his season was basically over.
SUBSCRIBE TO KEEP READING
Start for $0 & enjoy free unlimited access for 30 days.
- Daily TV listings for U.S. and global soccer.
- Inside access to USA’s 2026 World Cup prep.
- Exclusive interviews with players and coaches.
- Expert analysis of top soccer headlines.
- Cancel anytime.
Already have an account? Sign in here.
CHECK OUT MORE STORIES
Not ready to subscribe? Sign up here for our free newsletter.
Already have an account? Sign in here.
