Folarin Balogun breaks silence on Arsenal transfer after joining AS Monaco

Folarin Balogun has left Arsenal after completing a permanent move to Monaco following a successful loan spell in Ligue 1 last season

Folarin Balogun has spoken out for the first time since leaving Arsenal on a permanent transfer to join Monaco. The talented young striker was left out of the Gunners' opening three Premier League fixtures against Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace and Fulham.

Speaking at his presentation as an AS Monaco player, Balogun spoke about his time at Arsenal. In a press conference, attended by Get French Football News, Balogun was asked if he had any regrets about his time at Arsenal. “For me, I don’t have any regrets," the 22-year-old said.

"Football is a competitive sport, and of course, the manager sometimes makes choices: sometimes there are opportunities for some players, and sometimes it’s a bit difficult. I wanted to play, I wanted to prove to people that I can compete at this level."

"I think the decision was natural, but I wouldn’t say there is any regret,” added the USMNT striker. “As a young player, I want to play.

"I want to prove what I’m capable of. What’s done is done.

"You don’t always get the opportunity. Sometimes that opens door to new opportunities.

"I am happy with the way things turned out. I wish Arsenal all the best for the season. We’re looking to achieve great things at Monaco this season.”

Arsenal now have Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah as their two natural strikers - while summer signing Kai Havertz can also fill in as a centre-forward. Leandro Trossard joined the Gunners in January and has been used as a No.9 under Mikel Arteta - with Arsenal receiving a fee of around £34million for Balogun.