Liverpool midfielder James Balagizi joins Forest Green Rovers on season-long loan

Liverpool midfielder James Balagizi has joined Forest Green Rovers on a season-long loan for the 2025–26 campaign, aiming to gain further senior experience.

The 21-year-old joined the Reds as an under-11 player and has twice been named on the bench for Liverpool’s first team. He was also part of the U18 squad that reached the FA Youth Cup final in 2021.

The midfielder has had previous loan spells with Crawley Town, Wigan Athletic, and Kilmarnock.

He now links up with Forest Green Rovers, who are currently unbeaten and top of the National League after five matches this season.

Welcome to Forest Green, James Balagizi! 👊#WeAreFGR💚 pic.twitter.com/FJbLnTnbEU

— Forest Green Rovers (@FGRFC_Official) August 28, 2025

On his signing, Director of Football Mark Bowen said: “James is a top talent and we’re delighted to be able to attract a player of his ability to the football club in amongst fighting off interest from clubs higher up the pyramid.

“We’re incredibly thankful to Liverpool for allowing us to aid his development and add more quality to our squad here at FGR.

“He can play in a number of positions across the midfield and has an excellent passing range to help build from the back. He’s also able to provide powerful forward runs to help the team as a whole.”

Manager Robbie Savaged added: “It’s another great bit of recruitment for the club and shows yet more incredible backing from Dale (Vince) and Asif (Rehmanwala). We’re delighted to add James to the squad.

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