Folarin Balogun Returns to Action in Monaco Victory Following Failed Everton Move

Folarin Balogun made his first appearance of the season as a 76th-minute substitute in Monaco's 2-1 win against Lens on Friday.

AS Monaco defeated Lens 2-1 on Friday to remain unbeaten at the top of Ligue 1, featuring the season debut of United States striker Folarin Balogun. Paris Brunner opened the scoring for Monaco in the 32nd minute before Matthieu Udol equalized for Lens in the 57th. The deciding goal arrived in the 84th minute via a Jonathan Gradit own goal. The match followed the dismissal of Lens coach Dino Toppmöller, who was fired earlier in the week after six games.

Balogun entered the match as a substitute in the 76th minute, marking his first competitive appearance since the 2026 World Cup round-of-16. The 25-year-old forward had been sidelined by a minor injury and a collapsed transfer to Everton. Although terms were agreed upon by all parties earlier this month, the deal broke down in its final hours after Everton raised questions regarding Balogun's medical.

Monaco, led by new coach Filipe Luis, currently sits atop the league standings. While the club initially explored moving Balogun to leagues with open transfer windows, he is now expected to remain with the French side until at least January. Despite his return to club play, Balogun was omitted from Mauricio Pochettino's first USMNT roster this week following his three-goal performance at the World Cup.