Carlos Baleba set for Manchester United debut against Tottenham

Carlos Baleba, Manchester United's £70m summer signing from Brighton, is expected to make his debut against Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford this weekend. The 22-year-old has been recovering from an ankle injury sustained before the transfer and was an unused substitute in the 1-1 draw at Fulham on 20 September.

United have struggled early in the season, sitting 12th in the Premier League with one win and five points from five games. They were also knocked out of the EFL Cup by Brighton, who came from 2-0 down to win at Old Trafford. The team is one of only four in the top flight yet to keep a clean sheet.

Baleba is seen as the solution to United's holding midfield role, which has been difficult to fill since Casemiro's exit in May. Manager Michael Carrick has paired Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans in recent league games, but United have been too easy to play through. Baleba's speed and ability to cover ground are expected to bring positive benefits, though he must do more than run fast and make an impact in the dressing room as well.

Sources say Baleba has overcome initial shyness and nervousness since arriving. He has formed a friendship with Amad Diallo, and his English has improved significantly since moving to Brighton from Lille in 2023. His determination stems from his father's punishing training sessions, and he fulfilled a promise to build his mother a house in Douala before her death.

Brighton sources have dismissed suggestions that late interest from United in summer 2025 turned Baleba's head, though no alternative reason for his dip in form last season has been offered. United regard the £70m fee as good business after being quoted over £100m in August 2025. Supporters will be eager to see if Baleba can replicate the performances that lit up his 2024-25 campaign.

Source: BBC Sport

Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport