Balogun Available

After Netting a Hat-Trick in a Monaco Youth Match, the Forward Could Feature This Weekend

Folarin Balogun has overcome a challenging shoulder injury that sidelined him since December, and he will be available for Monaco in the club's match against Nice on Saturday.

The injury saga began in October during a match against Stade Rennais, where Balogun suffered a dislocated shoulder. A brief return in late November proved premature, as the shoulder issue flared up again during a match against Olympique de Marseille. Medical experts ultimately recommended surgery to fully resolve the persistent problem.

Balogun's path to recovery took a significant turn this week with a remarkable comeback performance. In a friendly match against Brighton's U23s at La Turbie, he scored a stunning 16-minute hat-trick. The youth side secured a 3-2 victory, with Balogun playing the first half before being substituted under the watchful eye of AS Monaco manager Adi Hütter.

The Austrian manager's confidence in Balogun's recovery is palpable. Hütter confirmed the forward's availability for the upcoming Derby de la Côte d'Azur against OGC Nice, stating, "He is back and available. He played a really good game for the Groupe Élite. He is ready to play."

This comeback is more than just a return to the pitch for Balogun. Fans and teammates alike will eagerly anticipate his return to competitive match action, hoping his goal-scoring prowess will continue to shine for AS Monaco.