Folarin Balogun sends statement message to Mikel Arteta

Arsenal striker out on loan Folarin Balogun is enjoying a productive breakthrough season at Reims.

Balogun scored a hat-trick as Reims beat Lorient 4-2 in Ligue 1, taking his tally to 14 goals in the league.

Mikel Arteta sent Balogun to Reims to mature as a player and there is no doubt about his progress with 15 goals across all competitions for the French outfit.

The 21-year-old has sent a clear message to Arteta ahead of next season, his performances this season will make him confident of challenging Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah for a starting role next season.

Flo Balogun with an unbelievable hattrick today. Penalty. Right footed volley. Left footed volley. 11 shots. 7 on target. 3 goals. 14 goals this season. Golden boot leader in France. 1 more than Mbappe.

HE HAS ARRIVED.pic.twitter.com/vGej52YMbM

— Hale End Productions (@Balogunner14) February 1, 2023

“Before I moved, Mikel said he wanted me to develop as a man,” said Balogun told the Mirror in September. “It was kind of like an open answer and for me to interpret what me meant by develop as a man. But by moving abroad, I’m starting to learn what he meant.

“It doesn’t just mean on the pitch but also off the pitch. I think by the time I go back I’ll be in a better place to compete than I was before I left.”

Balogun will be hoping to follow William Saliba’s route to success, Saliba had a breakthrough spell in Ligue 1 last season and was named the Ligue 1 young player of the year.

It will interesting to see how Arteta utilises the England youth international as he would add to the fire power of the Gunners attack.