Monaco Striker Balogun Sidelined for Extended Period Due to Shoulder Injury

AS Monaco’s head coach Adi Hütter has announced that forward Folarin Balogun will be out of action for approximately four months. The 23-year-old American-born English player sustained a dislocated left shoulder during a match against Stade Rennais in early October.

Initially, medical staff estimated a two-month recovery period for Balogun. He briefly returned to play in late November, appearing as a substitute against Benfica in a Champions League fixture and starting in a game against Olympique de Marseille shortly after. However, persistent discomfort, aggravated by a collision with Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi, led to the decision to undergo surgery last week.

Hütter revealed the extended absence timeline during a press conference, stating that Balogun is scheduled for surgery tomorrow. The former Arsenal striker’s recovery is expected to keep him off the pitch until spring.

In other team news, Hütter provided updates on several players ahead of Monaco’s upcoming match against Paris Saint-Germain. Midfielder Denis Zakaria may be available, with a final decision on his participation to be made on Tuesday. Unfortunately, Christian Mawissa is ruled out with a hamstring injury, while Krépin Diatta, Edan Diop, and Mamadou Coulibaly remain unavailable for selection as Monaco prepares to face PSG at the Parc des Princes.