Arsenal loanee Folarin Balogun has revealed his frustrations in pre-season, along with a conversation with Mikel Arteta, contributed to his decision to join Stade de Reims on loan for the 2022/23 campaign. The Hale End star was involved in Arteta's squad for the pre-season tour of America but he did not make an appearance before moving to France.
Balogun has scored 17 goals in 28 appearances this season for Stade de Reims - only Kylian Mbappe and Jonathan David have scored more in Ligue 1. His displays for Will Still's side have provided food for thought for Arteta and Arsenal ahead of his return to north London at the end of the season.
The Gunners currently have Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah as options in attack, but it's expected Balogun will demand first-team football after proving his worth in Europe. Arteta has already hinted at the plan for the Hale End graduate ahead of next season but it remains to be seen whether he will leave the Emirates Stadium permanently or not.
