Pochettino on Balogun’s appeal: ‘99% of people think the red card was unfair’

United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino has welcomed FIFA’s decision to temporarily lift Folarin Balogun’s suspension, insisting the forward’s red card was widely condemned as unjust. “My reaction is the same as everyone else’s. We welcome this decision because 99% of people agree that sending-off was unfair. Now Folarin can focus on football and help the team,” Pochettino said during a press conference. Balogun was shown a straight red in a friendly against Panama, which triggered an automatic multi-match ban. His representatives lodged an appeal, and FIFA’s disciplinary panel agreed to review the case, allowing the striker to return to training and match action while the process continues. For the USMNT, which is building toward hosting the 2026 World Cup, keeping Balogun available is a major boost. The Monaco forward is considered a vital piece of Pochettino’s attacking setup, and the manager made it clear he counts on him for upcoming fixtures.