As a child, Balogun learned to be a Number 9 by drawing inspiration from his childhood heroes, Edinson Cavani and Robert Lewandowski. Some fans might wonder why he has a Nigerian name, was raised in England, but plays for the U.S. men’s national soccer team. The reason is that Folarin was born in the United States to Nigerian parents who then raised him and his siblings in England. At one point in his career, Balogun was eligible to represent any of the three nations—Nigeria, England, or the USA—at the international level.
Learning from His Childhood Heroes: Folarin Balogun Soccer Story
Described by those who truly understand soccer as a genuine Number 9, Balogun is known for his pace, technique, and being two-footed. He is often considered one of the most underrated center forwards in the world. Now, let’s dive into the story of a footballer whose intelligent movement and speed have drawn comparisons to Arsenal’s second-highest ever goalscorer, Ian Wright.
Preamble:
Our Biography of Folarin Balogun tells you Facts about his Childhood Story, Early Life, Parents, Family, Girlfriend/wife-to-be, Lifestyle and Personal Life.
It is a concise presentation of the Footballers’ life journey, from his early days to when he became famous. To whet your autobiography appetite, check out his photo gallery that portrays his boyhood and football rise — a perfect intro to our content on Folarin Balogun’s Bio.
Folarin Balogun Biography – Behold his Early Life and Great Rise.
Yes, everyone knows he is one of the exciting prospects in North London. However, only a few people know the Life story of the Young Gun: Folarin Balogun. Without further ado, let’s begin.
Folarin Balogun Childhood Story:
For those new to his story, he is often called “Balogunner.” Folarin Jerry Balogun was born on July 3, 2001, in New York City, United States. Balogun’s parents, however, are not Americans.
Folarin Balogun Family Origin:
The forward’s parents were born in Nigeria. Also, research carried out to determine his family origins reveals that his Dad and Mum hail from western Nigeria.
Interestingly, they are of a Yoruba-speaking tribe, which is one of the three major ethnic groups in the West African country.
Growing-up Years:
Although Folarin was born in a city (New York) that never sleeps, he spent most of his childhood growing up in England.
Folarin Balogun’s parents left the States when he was only two and made their new home in London, where Folarin grew up loving football.
Our boy was raised in London.
Folarin Balogun Family Background:
Balogunner had a smooth sail through his formative years, thanks to having parents who wanted the best for him.
Their preference to stay in a more well-mannered developed nation like England testifies to their financial buoyancy and plans for their son’s future.
Folarin Balogun Biography – Football Story:
One of the plans which the striker’s parents had was to enroll him in a football academy. Having spotted his interest and prospects, they figured he would fare well as a sportsman.
Therefore, he was allowed to play for Sunday League side Aldersbrook. Thus began his first steps in competitive football.
Early Years in Career Football:
By the time the lad was ten years old, Arsenal had spotted him while playing for Aldersbrook. The north London club quickly moved to sign him before rival Tottenham got him.
“While I was having my trial at Arsenal, I stayed in touch with Tottenham just in case things didn’t work out.
Fortunately, Arsenal signed me. I was thrilled—it was one of the most special moments of my life.”
Folarin Balogun Biography – Road To Fame Story:
Being a gunner had been the youngster’s childhood dream. Therefore, he did his best to ensure that he lived every aspect of the dream which included a progressive rise through the club’s ranks.
At the peak of his rise, Balogun became popular as a goal-scoring machine. He began drawing comparisons to first-team superstar Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and got his first professional contract in February 2019.
See who got his professional contract in 2019.
Folarin Balogun Biography – The Rise:
Upon making his debut in Arsenal’s 3-0 Europa victory over Dundalk in October, Balogun was very happy that he had achieved his childhood dream.
Although he didn’t score, he remarked that the debut was “a moment I have been waiting for.” The youngster’s journey in top-flight football has just begun.
With Aubameyang, Lacazette, and Nketiah plying their trade in the North American London club, Balogun would have to have to earn his place in the team’s attack squad.
Hopefully, he has a die-hard mentality and will achieve success, whether with the Gunners or any other team. The rest, as they say, is history.
Folarin Balogun Family Life:
Upon scoring his first Arsenal goal against Molde in November, there were a set of people who were more than happy for the forward.
They are his family. We bring you facts about Folarin Balogun’s parents. Also, we will make facts about his siblings and relatives available here.
About Folarin Balogun Parents:
Balogunner’s dad and mom have been an integral part of his life and rise. They are assiduously working behind the scenes to ensure that he stays focused and establishes himself in the Premier League.
Given the speed at which Balogun is improving, it would not be long before his parents start granting interviews on how they raised him to be an amazing talent.
About Folarin Balogun Siblings:
Balogunner could likely be the only child born to his parents. He had made no mention of a brother.
Neither has any girl/lady identified herself as his sister. Have you seen his siblings? Do well to tell us in the comment box.
About Folarin Balogun Relatives:
Just like the player’s immediate family, there aren’t records of the striker’s grandparents. Similarly, neither are his uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, and nieces known as of the month of December 2020.
Personal Life:
Who is our boy beyond being a genius who plays on the shoulder of the last defender?
Sit back as we bring you facts about his persona to help you get a complete picture of him. He is a happy-go-lucky chappy who knows how to balance ambition with the right attitude.
Though not big on smiling, Balogun is someone you would love to have an interesting conversation with.
In addition, his sense of humor precedes him, and so do his people skills. He loves working out and fancies taking long leisure walks.
Also, traveling and having a good time with family and friends are on the list of his interest and hobbies.
Folarin Balogun Lifestyle:
How much is our boy worth in 2020? His net worth is under review. However, it is an open secret that he earns about £4,532.72 weekly. The 19-year-old must have acquired a driving license to drive himself to train in a fancy car.
In addition, he can afford a fancy house or apartment for himself with such a weekly payout. In summary, nothing is stopping Balogunner from living a luxurious lifestyle, except he chooses not to.
Facts About Folarin Balogun:
Congrats, you made it this far. To wrap up this engaging article, here are facts you need to know about the youngster.
Folarin Balogun Religion:
Folarin Jerry Balogun might be big on religion or not. In fact, he keeps his beliefs to himself and has given no hint about whether he is a Christian or not. However, time shall reveal what he stands for in matters of faith.
FIFA 2020 Ratings:
Never has injustice been so glaring as it is in Balogun’s ratings. Can you imagine that he has an overall rating of 60 points with a potential of 80? Truth be told, Folarin, with all his career achievements is suppose to be level on par with the likes of Jonas Wind and Patrik Schick.
It is obviously not a reflection of his capabilities.
That sure doesn’t reflect the real-life capability of a great finisher who is compared to the likes of Youssoufa Moukoko. Fortunately, he is up for an upgrade, considering his recent performances.
International Duty:
Did you know that Balogun is eligible to represent three countries? They are Tim Weah‘s USA and Cole Plamer‘s England team.
Also, he can represent Nigeria. However, chances are he is going to represent England due to better opportunities and incentives.
EndNote:
Thanks for reading this informative piece on Folarin Balogun’s childhood story and biography. We hope it has inspired you to do and stand for what you love. Just like Balogun strove to join Arsenal, a club he dearly loved.
So far, Balogun keeps playing for the Gunners. He would effortlessly keep the hype train at full steam ahead.
He is where he loves, and he is being loved. It behooves us now to commend the striker’s parents for their support of his career in words and deeds.
We take pride in delivering childhood stories and biographical facts of footballers of Nigerian origin. Without a doubt, the Life History of Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams will excite you.
If you see anything that doesn’t look right, do well to leave a comment or contact us.
