Folarin Balogun makes his debut for USA in Nations League

Folarin Balogun makes his debut for the United States men’s national team just weeks after snubbing England for America.

The New York-born striker, who starred on loan from Arsenal at Reims this season, was also eligible to represent England and Nigeria but committed to the Stars and Stripes on May 16.

He was named in B.J. Callaghan’s first squad – for the CONCACAF Nations League – at the start of the month, and was given the nod against Mexico on Thursday night. 

The 21-year-old is expected to compete for the starting No. 9 spot after a season in which he reached 20 goals in Ligue 1. 

Balogun’s filed his one-time switch to the USA after appearing for England at the Under 17, U18, U20, and U21 levels. He also appeared for the USA at the U18 level, and decided to represent the country of his birth after getting snubbed by England.

Balogun arrives at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada for the CONCACAF Nations League

‘My decision to represent the United States came together with my family,’ he said in a statement after the switch became official.

‘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.’