'Balogun an aggressive, strong-tackling full back'

Mainz 4th signing Leon Balogun

FSV Mainz 05 have signed Super Eagles Leon Balogun from Bundesliga newcomers SV Darmstadt 98. The 26-year-old arrives on a free transfer and has signed a contract until June 2018. The Berlin-born right back, with German and Nigerian heritage, has been a key player for the Lilies, making 21 appearances, including four goals. Balogun has four caps for the Nigerian national team, including 90 minutes in the Super Eagles’ win in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad on 12th June.
Leon Balogun has previously played for Hannover 96 (2008 - 2010), Werder Bremen (2010 - 12) and Fortuna Düsseldorf (2012 - 14), accumulating 23 appearances in the Bundesliga, as well as 32 in the 2. Bundesliga and 49 in the third division. After breaking his foot during his international debut in March 2014, he signed last year for Darmstadt 98.
“We were made aware of Leon Balogun during his time at Fortuna Düsseldorf, but then he suffered an injury which threw him off course. But a strong season with Darmstadt 98 put him back on our radar. He is a physically strong, dynamic right back who can also play in the centre of defence. We are looking forward to having such a highly motivated, ambitious player, who is really passionate about playing in the Bundesliga,” says sporting director Christian Heidel.
Coach Martin Schmidt says, “In Leon Balogun we have found an aggressive, strong-tackling full back, but who is also flexible across the back-four. He is a nice, intelligent guy who will not just enhance our team on the pitch, but also in the changing room.”
“I’m looking forward to the upcoming challenge. Mainz 05 has established itself in the Bundesliga in the last few years, just like I’d like to do. This is a very good opportunity for me, and I am very happy and proud to be a future part of the 05s,” says Leon Balogun.