The start of the 2025-26 Ligue 1 season has put two USMNT figures under the spotlight: Folarin Balogun and Timothy Weah. Both face a crucial campaign with the World Cup in sight, though their situations in France present significant contrasts.

Balogun starts strong with a goal and consistency at Monaco

The AS Monaco striker began firmly after a year of ups and downs. His goal in the 3-2 victory over Strasbourg on August 31 was not only his first of the season but also confirmed his physical and mental recovery. That strike reestablished him as a key attacking reference in Ligue 1 and reinforced the notion that he can return to his best form, reminiscent of his breakout season at Stade de Reims in 2022-23.

Beyond the goal, his role as a forward attacking the near post and stretching defenses is crucial to Monaco’s flexible system (4-3-3/4-2-3-1). During the September FIFA window, he also stood out with the national team by scoring in the USA’s 2-0 win, boosting his confidence in Mauricio Pochettino’s setup, where he plays a central role in a 3-4-2-1 designed to dominate the box.

Weah shines in Champions but still lacking in Ligue 1

Timothy Weah’s story is different. After arriving on loan at Olympique de Marseille from Juventus, the American is trying to relaunch his career as a wing-back/winger under Roberto De Zerbi. In Ligue 1, his numbers are modest: 4 games, 3 starts, and 241 minutes without goals or assists. While his creative metrics are improving, he has yet to translate that into consistent attacking output.

His standout moment came in Europe: on Champions League Matchday 1, he opened the scoring at the Santiago Bernabéu against Real Madrid, finishing off a transition assisted by Mason Greenwood. That goal gave him international visibility and showcased him as a player who can deliver on big stages, though within the USMNT he still competes for minutes out wide with profiles like Alejandro Zendejas.

Verdict for the USMNT

Right now, in the context of Ligue 1, the edge goes to Balogun: he’s already scored in the league, established at his club, and delivering for the national team. Weah, meanwhile, offers versatility and international pedigree, but must improve his domestic numbers to strengthen his case.

Looking ahead to the World Cup, Pochettino seems to have it clear: Balogun is shaping up to be the USMNT’s starting number nine, while Weah remains a key option for the wing or flank, capable of providing pace and intensity in high-stakes matches.