Folarin Balogun (photo DR)
Jesse Marsch criticized The Athletic over the controversial decision regarding Folarin Balogun during the World Cup. According to the Canadian coach, the lifting of the American striker's suspension "would not have been conceivable in any other country in the world."
Balogun received a red card during the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina but was able to participate in the game against Belgium due to a suspended suspension. This decision came after former U.S. President Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the situation.
Marsch, who is also from the United States, believes this issue highlights the sentiment among Americans who feel they deserve special treatment. "As Americans, we grow up with a certain propaganda. We are constantly told that we are the best country in the world, that we are entitled to everything, and that we excel in all areas. So, when events are beyond our control, we feel like we demand different treatment simply because of our nationality."
"This is one of the reasons why Americans provoke frustrations worldwide," Marsch adds. "That’s why many people around the world do not appreciate America." According to the coach, the atmosphere around the U.S. team has drastically changed because of this situation: "The United States had a great World Cup and played well. Everything turned upside down in the blink of an eye."
The United States then suffered a 4-1 defeat against Belgium, leading to their elimination. Mauricio Pochettino, who had worked to allow Balogun to play at the time, has since acknowledged his mistakes. "You have to have the humility to recognize that you can be wrong. I think my mistake was not being present at that moment," said the American coach.
