Carlos Baleba is ready to make his Manchester United debut when the Premier League resumes after the September international break, with the midfielder expected to provide the energy and quality a struggling side has lacked.
United signed Baleba from Brighton for £70million despite an ankle ligament injury picked up during pre-season. The issue was not serious enough to prevent the deal but delayed his debut. He returned to light training on grass in mid-September before joining the main group, and was an unused substitute in the 1-1 draw at Fulham before the break.
Midfield energy missing
United enter the break 12th in the Premier League table with five points from five games. The performance at Fulham drew criticism over the team's running statistics, with United at the bottom of some key metrics. Youri Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo have formed the preferred pivot, but Baleba offers a different profile.
In 2024/2025, Baleba was one of just two central midfielders to top 34 kilometres per hour, while his 92 tackles and interceptions combined ranked him joint-sixth among central midfielders in the top flight. United's data department noted he was in the top one per cent for second balls won in the Premier League and the top eight per cent for combined tackles and interceptions.
Confidence in the player
Jason Wilcox said when the signing was completed: "Carlos is an elite midfielder with immense potential to develop further." A source close to the player added: "Mark my words, he will be a success."
Baleba has settled in well at Carrington since arriving, with sources saying his bubbly personality has emerged as he has become more comfortable. He has become particularly friendly with Leny Yoro and Amad, spending time with the latter in the gym during rehabilitation. While most players were given last week off, Baleba reported to Carrington for individual sessions.
Return against Tottenham
Supporters are clamouring to see Baleba make his debut when United face Tottenham on October 10. Tottenham are bottom of the table on goal difference despite a £334m summer spend, making the clash significant for both clubs.
United need three points as much as Spurs, with external noise around Michael Carrick growing before the break. Carrick may be tempted to stick with his preferred midfield of Tielemans, Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes, but there is a clear incentive to get Baleba into the team. He has the quality to change the trajectory of the season, and United cannot afford to bench an "elite" midfielder.
