Folarin Balogun misses Monaco training

United States international Folarin Balogun was absent from AS Monaco’s first-team training session on Wednesday ahead of their UEFA Europa Conference League meeting with Górnik Zabrze.

The striker’s absence comes as speculation continues over a possible move to Tottenham Hotspur, but Monaco manager Filipe Luís has insisted the forward is not being left out because of an imminent transfer.

Balogun missed the session at La Turbie as Monaco continued preparations for Thursday’s European fixture.

Monaco explain Balogun absence

Luís said Balogun is still working his way back to full fitness after returning late from the World Cup and dealing with physical problems suffered during the tournament.

“He just started his pre-season. He came back late from the World Cup, and is also recovering from some issues that he had in the World Cup,” began the Monaco manager.

He added: “He couldn’t train much yet. He’s probably going to start training with the group this week. I hope we can have him soon, because, of course, he’s an important player.”

The comments appear to rule out suggestions that Balogun’s absence is linked to a move away from Monaco.

Abline also misses session

Balogun was not the only Monaco forward missing from the main training session.

Matthis Abline was also absent, although the former FC Nantes striker was later seen working individually around the pitch during the portion of the session open to the media.

Abline picked up a knock during Monaco’s match against Coventry City and is currently experiencing pain in his foot.

His fitness will therefore be monitored ahead of the club’s upcoming fixtures.

Fati remains sidelined

Ansu Fati was the third notable absentee from the session.

The Barcelona loanee is not expected to be fit in time for the beginning of the Ligue 1 season, adding another concern to Monaco’s attacking options.

For Balogun, however, Monaco’s message is clear: his current absence is related to his fitness and delayed pre-season preparations rather than an imminent departure.

The striker will now aim to return to group training as Monaco prepare for the new campaign.