Filipe Luís backs Folarin Balogun to rediscover best form after difficult spell at Monaco

Monaco striker Folarin Balogun has received praise from head coach Filipe Luís following his return from injury, with the manager expressing confidence in the United States international’s ability to regain his best form.

The 25-year-old forward recently returned to action after missing the start of the season with a knee injury and has already found the net again, scoring in Monaco’s 3-1 defeat to Paris FC on Sunday.

Balogun has also been added to Monaco’s UEFA Conference League squad, replacing the injured Ansu Fati and making him eligible for Thursday’s encounter against Nordsjaelland.

Balogun overcomes difficult spell

The American forward endured a challenging period following the FIFA World Cup, having returned from the tournament with an injury before experiencing a failed move to Everton on transfer deadline day.

His absence was a setback for Monaco, particularly after an impressive previous campaign in which he scored 19 goals in 43 appearances across all competitions.

Beyond his goalscoring contribution, Balogun also earned recognition for his link-up play and work rate, establishing himself as an important attacking option for the French club.

His knee injury initially ruled him out of Monaco’s Conference League squad, but his recent progress in training has convinced the coaching staff to bring him back into the competition.

Luís impressed by Balogun’s progress

Speaking at a press conference attended by Get French Football News, Filipe Luís welcomed the striker’s inclusion in the European squad and highlighted his improved performances in training.

“I think it’s important for Balogun also [to come into the Conference League squad]. He’s been training fantastically in the last couple of weeks. I can see that his form in training has improved a lot. And you all know he’s a top player. And we want to get the best of him. So in this case, I think having the Conference League, also to give minutes and get this feeling back of being a football player, a Monaco player, is going to help him regain his form, but also help the team with what we need. So this is very important for us. And it’s going to be good to see him on the pitch.”

The Monaco manager also acknowledged the difficulties Balogun has experienced since the World Cup, including the uncertainty surrounding his transfer situation.

“For sure, what he lives, since the World Cup has not been normal for him. He’s been through a lot since the World Cup, the transfer window and everything. So sometimes some players are really fast, but sometimes players take a little bit longer. But as I said, in the last couple of weeks, he’s been fantastic in training. And of course, you can see that. You can see it. The players see it. The coach sees it. And when the players are like this, it is natural that he gets minutes to play.

“Of course, he’s a player who generates a lot for himself. He’s very dangerous attacking the space. He’s very strong. Shoot with both legs. Have this feeling that he wants to score goals. And yeah, it’s very good to have him back.”

Monaco hopeful of Balogun’s contribution

Balogun’s return provides Monaco with another attacking option as they prepare for their Conference League fixture against Nordsjaelland.

With his confidence gradually returning and his performances in training improving, Luís will be hoping the American forward can rediscover the form that made him such an influential figure during the previous campaign.