Former Arsenal Scores Hat-trick On Return From Serious Injury

Image credit: Getty Images

Former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun made a stunning return to action, scoring a hat-trick in AS Monaco’s Groupe Élite victory over Brighton’s U23s in a friendly at La Turbie on Tuesday. This was Balogun’s first match since undergoing shoulder surgery in December.

The USMNT forward had been sidelined since early December after aggravating a dislocated shoulder, which originally occurred in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille in October. Despite returning briefly in late November, the injury flared up again, leading to a decision to undergo surgery for a permanent fix.

On Tuesday, Balogun featured for Monaco’s reserve team in a friendly against Brighton’s U23 side, making an instant impact by scoring a first-half hat-trick. The 22-year-old forward was substituted at halftime, but his performance helped Monaco secure a 3-2 victory in front of first-team manager Adi Hütter.

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While his return is a positive sign, it remains uncertain whether Balogun will be fit enough to feature in Saturday’s Derby de la Côte d’Azur against OGC Nice in Ligue 1. Hütter had previously suggested before the international break that the forward’s recovery was progressing well, hinting at a potential return for the crucial league fixture.

***Former Arsenal star Folarin Balogun (Image credit: Getty Images)***

Balogun initially dislocated his shoulder in a 2-1 win over Rennes in October, where he had scored his third goal of the season. The injury ruled him out of both USMNT camps in October and November. He made his comeback in late November but aggravated the issue during a match against Marseille on December 1, forcing him to opt for surgery.

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Since joining Monaco from Arsenal last summer, Balogun has endured a stop-start season due to injuries. Additionally, he has yet to feature under USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino, who took charge last October.

Balogun’s return to full fitness could be a major boost for both Monaco and the USMNT, as he looks to regain momentum heading into the latter stages of the season.