One of the biggest talking points of this summer’s World Cup has been Folarin Balogun’s red card being overturned by FIFA.
It was a decision that even saw President Donald Trump play his role to make the USMNT striker available for the last 16 game against Belgium.
Although Balogun’s availability ultimately had no impact on the result, it was still a decision from FIFA that caused a real stir among soccer fans.
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Mauricio Pochettino’s side was thrown into the spotlight due to the nature of Trump’s involvement in the decision process behind-the-scenes.
Balogun has broken his silence on the red card controversy, where he admitted he felt it put a real pressure on his teammates.
However, it seems his views are not shared by all of his USMNT teammates.
What Tim Ream said about Folarin Balogun’s response to FIFA red card controversy
Ream played in the defeat against Belgium, but he was unable to prevent Rudi Garcia’s side from scoring four goals.
The defender clearly felt that the only pressure as a result of the suspension U-turn was on FIFA and not the USMNT.
“”Honestly, I think everybody’s perspective in that moment is probably going to be different. We’re all approaching him saying, “Oh, this is incredible! The red card’s been overturned; you can play now.” That’s obviously great for the team—everybody’s available and everybody can contribute,” Reams said on First Take.
“For me, if I look at it, I think guys were excited. Again, from his perspective, maybe it was all the attention that it was bringing, and that’s a unique thing. There are 26 guys within the team, right? Everybody’s going to feel something different, so perspective is everything. If that’s what he felt, then that’s what he felt.”
Trump has been criticized for his role in Balogun’s suspension being lifted, with the President of the United States clearly having a big influence on the decision process.
“I don’t think it put extra pressure. I think it put more eyes on the FA, the process, why it was a red card to begin with, how it came to be, and why it has been overturned,” Ream added.
“But for us, we’re players. We can’t focus on or control any of what is going on on the outside or the decisions that are being made.”
There may have been pressure on Balogun to perform in the game against Belgium having been handed the golden opportunity to actually play in the game.
Ultimately, the 25-year-old was unable to provide any goals during the last 16 game.
However, it is clear to see that there are some conflicting views inside the USMNT locker room over the manner in which Balogun’s suspension was lifted.
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