‘Arsenal Legend’ Thierry Henry (45) gave advice to Polarin Balogan (21, Stade Rennes).
Balogan is a striker who has been expected since he was a child as Arsenal’s sacred goal youth. Balogan, who played Arsenal’s age group, debuted on the first team stage by participating in the English Premier League (EPL) in the 2021-22 season. However, at such a young age, opportunities were not often given.
In the end, Balogan experienced the Championship (second division) when he left for Middlesbrough on loan in the 2021-22 season. He scored three goals in 18 appearances for Middlesbrough. He returned to Arsenal ahead of this season, but left for Rennes again after being pushed by Gabriel Jejus and Eddie Nketia.
Balogan exploded his potential in Ren. In 34 league games, he became the team’s main striker and scored 19 goals and 3 assists. After finishing tied for 5th place in Ligue 1 scoring, he finally started playing on the professional stage, and interest in Balogan began to grow.
The England national team is also expecting Harry Kane (Tottenham) as a striker. Recently, the possibility of changing American citizenship was also reported. Balogan is of American descent and her parents are Nigerian nationals. Accordingly, it is known that the national team can be selected from among the three countries, including England, and that the International Football Federation (FIFA) has approved the change of nationality of the U.S. Football Federation.
Balogan will no longer be on loan at Arsenal. Balogan is looking to play regularly and will pursue a move if it is not part of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s plans. Currently, AC Milan, Leipzig, etc. are promoting the recruitment of kicks.
Arsenal legend Henry also left advice for Balogan. According to Britain’s “The Sun” on the 18th (Korean time), Henry said, “Next season is very important for Balogan. I don’t know if I will play for Arsenal or not. Obviously he has to compete with Kane and Callum Wilson for England.”