Rio Ferdinand has named former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun as part of his best team at the 2026 World Cup so far.
The Hale End graduate has netted two goals in his first two matches at the tournament and helped secure the host nation a spot in the Round of 32.
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Back in the summer of 2023, the Gunners sold Balogun for £34.6 million, and the striker has since gone on to impress with Monaco.
Following his strong start to the World Cup with the United States, Ferdinand has been raving about the former Arsenal star.
Rio Ferdinand says Folarin Balogun has been one of the best players at the World Cup
Rio Ferdinand believes that ex-Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has been one of the best players at the World Cup 2026 so far.
The former Manchester United defender has hailed the 24-year-old and picked him alongside Lionel Messi and Michael Olise in his attack for the best World Cup team.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said: “I’m going with Olise on the right, Messi as my false number nine and Balogun on the left.”
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Balogun has been leading the line for Mauricio Pochettino’s side, who have won both of their opening two games.
The striker netted a brace in their opening game against Paraguay and then led from the front during a 2-0 win over New Zealand.
Folarin Balogun’s form could earn Arsenal millions
Given the striker has just two years left on his current deal at Monaco, this could be the moment for them to cash in on the striker.
The Athletic claims that the French club value him at £43.5 million, which could be great news for Arsenal and their sell-on clause.
Arsenal will receive 12.5 per cent of the fee for Balogun, and if he is sold for £43.5m, they would receive around £5m from the deal.
Premier League clubs could come in for the United States striker, and that would be Monaco’s best chance of their valuation being matched.
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