Folarin Balogun wrote his name into American soccer history in Los Angeles, striking twice for the USMNT in their World Cup opener against Paraguay – a performance that could ultimately line Arsenal’s pockets.
The 24-year-old centre-forward’s brace made him the first American player to score a double at a World Cup since Bert Patenaude in 1930. His goals helped the hosts to a 4-1 victory, a result he described as a “dreamy night” that made “a real statement”.
“Folarin Balogun scored twice for USMNT; Arsenal have 17.5% sell-on clause from £34m Monaco transfer.”
That statement will not have been lost on scouts watching from Europe, and Arsenal hold a 17.5% sell-on clause in the deal that took Balogun from north London to AS Monaco in August 2023 for £34m including add-ons. There was no buy-back clause, but if Monaco – who will be desperate to keep their striker after a 19-goal season – are forced to sell, the Gunners stand to earn millions.
“We have to believe,” Balogun said after the game. “You can’t do anything if you don’t believe in yourself. So a 4-1 against a tough Paraguay side, we’ll look to recover and rest for the next game.”
At the time of his departure, Mikel Arteta was open to keeping Balogun but could not offer him regular minutes, and interest from Inter Milan and AC Milan was eclipsed by Monaco’s decisive move. Now, with the World Cup stage as his platform, his value is only likely to rise.