AS Monaco’s Ligue 1 title challenge faces setback as USMNT star Balogun suffers two-month layoff

AS Monaco have been dealt a major setback as star striker Folarin Balogun will be sidelined for at least two months following a dislocated shoulder, Soccernet.football reports.

The 23-year-old American, who has been in fine form, suffered the injury during Monaco’s 2-1 win over Rennes on October 5, when he collided with defender Leo Ostigard.

Scans revealed that Balogun dislocated the glenohumeral joint in his left shoulder, according to French sports outlet L’Équipe as per BeinSports.

The striker, who had scored three goals in his last three matches, was forced off the pitch after the collision, leaving Monaco and coach Adi Hütter with a significant gap to fill.

Monaco, who currently top Ligue 1, will now have to find a solution for their upcoming matches, including a challenging fixture against Lille on Friday.

With Balogun unavailable, Hütter will likely rely on Breel Embolo and young prospect George Ilenikhena to lead the line.

There is hope that Balogun could return to action by December 8, when Monaco face Toulouse, though his recovery may extend into the new year.

If the club opts for a cautious approach, Balogun might not make his comeback until after the winter break, with a possible return against Paris Saint-Germain on January 5.

Balogun’s absence will also raise concerns over his availability for Monaco’s critical Champions League clash with Arsenal, his former club, on December 11. His absence will be keenly felt as Monaco looks to maintain their momentum in both domestic and European competitions.