Nigeria-born Reims of France striker Folarin Balogun says he still wants a future with parent club Arsenal.
Balogun has been in good form in the French Ligue 1, having scored 11 goals in 19 games this season – including a last-minute equaliser against leaders Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes on Sunday night.
Balogun called Arsenal his “family” during a recent interview and dropped another hint on his future against PSG by copying one of Henry’s iconic celebrations for France during his heydays. Henry was at the Parc des Princes to watch Balogun’s equaliser.
Balogun spoke to Henry before the game and paid tribute to him by leaning on a corner flag after his goal. He then posted a picture of Henry doing the same celebration on social media and added: “Spoke to Titi [Henry] before the game! Only right to show my respect.”
Before the game, Balogun told L’Equipe: “Arsenal is my family.
“For me, the club represents brotherhood and unity. There, I learned always to push my limits. I remember from training the permanent desire to progress on a technical level.
“For example, we had to control the ball for 45 minutes without letting it touch the ground. I even practised that this morning [Thursday] in training. Thierry Henry, the legend sometimes coached us.
“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. I realised there were certain things I would struggle with but I think that’s a good thing.
“It helps you to manage stuff you’re uncomfortable with which is important. It is still early but definitely if I am around those sorts of names at the end of the season I would be really happy with myself.”
