Folarin Balogun’s first Arsenal goal came straight out of the Under-23s
Mikel Arteta only gave Folarin Balogun eight minutes against Molde, but that was enough time for the 19-year-old to round off the scoring in Arsenal‘s 3-0 victory.
It is pretty impressive that somebody so young was so clinical. Add in the fact that this was only his second first-team appearance – having played 16 minutes against Dundalk – and the teenager’s coolness becomes even more admirable.
This time may have come against Dundalk and Molde, but for any player to score in their first 24 minutes representing a club at senior level is something to be excited about.
Balogun looked pleased after seeing his strike hit the back of the net but still maintained his cool while celebrating.
The importance of this goal for the youngster was more obviously reflected by how overjoyed Balogun’s teammates were for him.
A moment Folarin Balogun will never forget 🙌
His first goal for Arsenal on just his second senior appearance!
They really like the look of him at the Emirates 🔴#UEL pic.twitter.com/FpIwurBy3M
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) November 26, 2020
Perhaps, the reason Balogun was able to stay so calm is that he played this scenario out so many times for their Under-23s.
This is obviously a big step up for the striker, but we’ve seen pretty much the exact same control and strike during Balogun’s time in the youth ranks.
A @Bencottrell8 pass… you know the story 🤝 pic.twitter.com/7CfiOhKu6m
— Balogun (@fbalogun67) October 21, 2020
He has a pretty incredible record in front of goal, having bagged 38 goals in 41 games for the Under-18s, as well as 16 goals in 40 appearances for the Under-23s.
The hope will be that the can translate this to first-team football, and he’s certainly made a good start.
His aim now will surely be to get some Premier League minutes, but even if the striker’s time is currently limited to the Europa League, don’t be too surprised if you see him pulling out this move again.
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