Folarin Balogun Could Make His First Start for AS Monaco Since the World Cup Controversy

Folarin Balogun could get a major opportunity with AS Monaco this Saturday. The American striker is looking to regain prominence after a difficult period that has put his future at the Principality club under scrutiny.

Folarin Balogun Eyes a Key Opportunity at Monaco

Folarin Balogun could have a major opportunity as Ligue 1 returns. The American striker is in contention to start this Saturday, October 10, when AS Monaco hosts Toulouse at the Stade Louis II.

Balogun is among the options to feature in the starting lineup against Toulouse. The possibility comes after he saw playing time recently and featured in a friendly during the international break. As the Principality club looks to maintain its strong start to the league campaign, Balogun could take an important step toward earning a regular place in the starting eleven.

An Injury and a Failed Transfer Complicated His Season

Balogun's absence at the start of the campaign was due to a physical setback: a knee injury kept him out of Monaco's first four Ligue 1 matches. He returned on September 18, coming off the bench in a 2-1 victory over Lens.

Compounding that setback was a failed move to Everton. The transfer appeared close to completion but fell through on September 1, deadline day. According to comments reported by talkSPORT, the American striker remains open to playing in England in the future.

Now, the outlook appears more promising. During the international break, Balogun scored in Monaco's 2-0 friendly win over Pisa, a positive sign as he looks to regain match fitness and convince head coach Filipe Luís that he is ready for a bigger role.

The World Cup Controversy Still Looms Over Balogun

The striker's summer was also marked by controversy at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After being sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina, his suspension was exceptionally overturned following interventions involving political figures and football authorities.

The decision allowed Balogun to start against Belgium in the Round of 16 on July 6, although the United States was ultimately eliminated. After the tournament, his fitness problems and uncertainty surrounding his club future further complicated his situation.

U.S. men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino also left him out of the squad for the October international window. According to comments reported by Sports Illustrated, the coach spoke with Balogun about his situation and the importance of focusing on his recovery.

Toulouse Could Mark Balogun's Return to Monaco's Starting Lineup

Monaco hosts Toulouse this Saturday, October 10, looking to extend its strong start to the season. The team has won four of its first five league matches, and having Balogun back to full fitness would give the club another attacking option.

The overall fitness of the squad is an encouraging sign. According to Get French Football News, Filipe Luís indicated that his players were available for the match, while Balogun continued to make progress in his recovery.

A starting role has yet to be confirmed, but the match offers the American striker an opportunity to put months of uncertainty behind him and make headlines for his performances on the pitch.