Folarin Balogun’s bid to make a swift return to full fitness has hit another snag, as the Monaco forward continues to battle a recurring shoulder injury.
The 23-year-old, who dislocated his shoulder in early October, was expected to be sidelined for two months. However, he defied expectations by coming off the bench in Monaco’s UEFA Champions League clash with Benfica in late November.
Balogun’s hopes of a smooth recovery were dashed during Monaco’s recent clash with Olympique Marseille, when he re-aggravated the injury following a tackle from Leonardo Balerdi. Despite the setback, he started the match, but was forced to cut short his training session the following Wednesday, just days before facing his former club, Arsenal.
Monaco manager Adi Hütter expressed his frustration over the injury, stating, “Folarin is frustrated. He’s worked hard in treatment, and we hope to have him back for Saturday’s match against Toulouse.” Balogun’s fitness remains in doubt, casting uncertainty over his potential involvement in Monaco’s upcoming Champions League clash with Arsenal.
