Baleba could debut against Tottenham as United weigh midfield options
Manchester United’s £65m signing Carlos Baleba could make his competitive debut against Tottenham on Saturday, after an ankle injury delayed his start. Supporters hope the 22-year-old can help address United’s poor early-season form, but his arrival also raises questions about how manager Michael Carrick will balance the midfield.
United have won one of their first five league matches and conceded eight goals, despite spending about £150m on midfield reinforcements. Baleba is valued for his athleticism, defensive work and ability to keep the ball under pressure, but he is not a natural creator; Kobbie Mainoo is in strong form, while dropping Youri Tielemans could weaken United’s passing. Baleba made his first matchday squad appearance in September and recently played in a behind-closed-doors friendly, so he may start on the bench against Spurs.
- Baleba could debut against Tottenham after recovering from an ankle injury.
- United have won one of five league matches and conceded eight goals.
- His arrival may improve midfield coverage but complicate Carrick’s team selection.
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Carlos Baleba is a 22-year-old midfielder Manchester United signed for £65 million from Brighton during the summer. He is regarded for his defensive strength, athleticism and ability to keep possession, though he is not known as a primary creator of chances.
Manchester United have experienced a difficult start to the season, winning just one of their first five league matches and conceding eight goals. Manager Michael Carrick has overseen approximately £150 million spent on midfield signings in an attempt to improve performance.
Baleba's arrival means the midfield now contains the young academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo, who is currently in good form, and the established midfielder Youri Tielemans. How Carrick balances these options remains to be seen as United seeks to improve its results.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Will Carlos Baleba fix Manchester United? Three big questions ahead of potential debut”.