‘Never easy to say goodbye’ – Balogun bids farewell to Reims ahead of Arsenal return

The striker scored 21 league goals during his loan in France

Folarin Balogun has bid farewell to Reims after a hugely successful loan spell at the Ligue 1 club.

The striker scored 21 league goals in 2022-23 during his loan from Arsenal, establishing himself as one of the top young forwards in Europe.

Balogun also set off an international tug-of-war over his services, which the U.S. national team won last month when the 21-year-old pledged his future to his birth country.

With his international future sorted, Balogun will now turn his attention toward his club situation. Should he stay at Arsenal, consistent minutes would by no means be guaranteed with Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah already in the fold.

Balogun is reportedly eyeing a permanent move away this summer rather than another loan, with several clubs across Europe interested.

The prospect of staying at Reims, either through another loan or on a permanent deal, has never seemed to be a real option for Balogun, who made his departure official with a heartfelt message on social media.

“Never easy to say goodbye, but we’ve arrived at the inevitable destination,” he said.

“Last summer I had the opportunity to join and was welcomed with open arms from day one! The support I’ve received from you all throughout my loan spell has been incredible and heartwarming. I leave hoping I was able to repay the love, trust and belief you guys put in me.

“This will forever be an unforgettable chapter for me and my family. Thank you for everything! Balo.”

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