I’m Open To Playing For Nigeria — Arsenal Striker, Folarin Balogun

Arsenal and England Under-21 striker Folarin Balogun says he would consider playing for Nigeria at the senior international level.

Balogun, 21, who is on loan at French club Reims from Arsenal, was born in the United States to Nigerian parents and has represented England at four different youth levels.

But, under Fifa rules, Balogun would be free to switch to represent Nigeria at the senior level because he has not played for the England senior side competitively.

And, despite scoring his seventh goal for the Young Lions in a 3-1 friendly win over Germany in September, Balogun has not ruled out representing Nigeria in the future.

“I haven’t heard anything from Nigeria, but I’m open to anything because Nigeria is very close to my heart,” he told BBC Sport Africa.

“My family’s from there. I always have a love for Nigeria.”

Nigeria had previously welcomed the possibility of having Balogun in the colours of the three-time African champions.

Back in 2020, then-Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr said he was an exciting prospect who could “add bite” to his attack.

And, despite amassing 11 goals in 26 England caps from U17 to U21 level, Balogun says he will not close the door on Nigeria.

“That’s a conversation that I need to have with people around me, my agent, and obviously my family,” added Balogun.

“But if I was asked about the opportunity to play for Nigeria, then I can have that conversation. But first I need to be asked.”

Balogun has been in impressive form for Reims, scoring the opener in their 2-1 win over Auxerre on Sunday to hand the Red and Whites a maiden home victory of the campaign.