Balogun's Season Disrupted

Monaco Striker Facing Shoulder Surgery

Monaco's Folarin Balogun is set to undergo shoulder surgery, marking a significant setback in his season.

The 23-year-old forward has been battling a persistent shoulder injury that has kept him sidelined. Monaco coach Adolf Hütter confirmed the upcoming medical procedure, expressing concern about the striker's future.

"The decision is that Balo will have surgery on his shoulder, and we don't know exactly how long it will take," Hütter told media. "It's a shame for him and a shame for us."AS.com

Initially sidelined for approximately two months, Balogun had returned to competition at the end of November. However, a recent hit during a 2-1 loss to Marseille in the French league reignited his pain, forcing him to miss training sessions and ultimately necessitating surgery. The striker was just starting to find his form before the initial injury, scoring in three-straight matches before being sidelined after the 2-1 win over Rennes back in October.

Most recently, the injury impacted his return to Arsenal, where Balogun spent his entire youth career, as Monaco fell midweek to the London side 3-0 in the Champions League. Balogun's availability for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League semifinals against Panama on March 20 remains uncertain.