On Tuesday, May 16, striker Folarin Balogun officially committed to representing the United States Men’s National Team. With his one-time change of association request approved by FIFA, Balogun is now eligible to play for the USMNT, beginning with this summer’s Concacaf Nations League Finals in Las Vegas.
ussoccer.com caught up with the 21-year-old striker for more insight on his decision and excitement to begin playing for the USMNT.
ussoccer.com: What led you to decide to represent the United States?
Folarin Balogun: "My decision to represent the United States, it came together with my family. We decided it would be the right thing for me, to represent the country I was born in. 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.”
ussoccer.com: What was your family’s response when you told them of your decision.
FB: "When I broke the news to my family they were all just over the moon, especially my mom. She said, ‘What took you so long?’, so for sure we were all on the same page. Then after that conversation, I just sent the message across to my agent and said ‘Let’s make it happen.’
ussoccer.com: What does it mean personally to you to represent the country where you were born?
FB: “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.”
