Manchester United midfielder Carlos Baleba is making steady progress toward a potential debut for the club as they prepare for Sunday’s Premier League match against Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Baleba, 22, joined United from Brighton & Hove Albion during the summer in a transfer reportedly worth £65 million, with an additional £5 million in potential add-ons. His arrival was part of Manchester United’s efforts to reinforce their midfield following the departure of Casemiro, who left after his contract expired, and a significant injury to Manuel Ugarte during the World Cup, sidelining the Uruguayan midfielder for an extended period.
United also strengthened the midfield with the signings of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa before securing Baleba’s transfer. Although the Cameroonian international experienced a dip in form last season, club officials have expressed satisfaction with the acquisition, which came after an initial approach last summer and a reduced transfer fee negotiated by Brighton.
Baleba has yet to make his competitive debut for the club due to an ankle ligament injury sustained during pre-season training. However, acting manager Michael Carrick provided an optimistic update on the midfielder’s readiness in a recent interview on the club’s website.
“We’re looking good. Everyone’s up and running. Over the last week or so, pretty much everyone has played and [been] fit and we’re trying to get Carlos back in," Carrick said. “Well, I say back in, actually introducing him into the group. So he’s done a bit of training this week and, hopefully, we’ll get Luke [Shaw] back in and around it this week and look forward to a strong game on the weekend.”
Carrick noted Baleba’s eagerness to integrate with the squad and contribute on the field. “He’s desperate to get started. He’s bouncing around the place. It’s not always easy, I think, when you come into a new club and you’re not fully in with the group, with the training. But he’s dealt with that ever so well, I have to say. He’s got a great personality and he’s full of enthusiasm around [the place] and pushing to get back as quickly as possible. So it’s great to have him back.”
Manchester United will be seeking an improved result after a challenging run of form. The team recently conceded a stoppage-time equalizer in a draw against Everton, suffered a defeat in the Manchester derby—marred by a contentious goal decision despite United playing much of the game with 10 men—and fell 3-2 at home to Brighton in the League Cup, marking their second consecutive early exit from the competition.
Their upcoming opponent, Fulham, has yet to secure a league victory under new manager Álvaro Arbeloa, the former Real Madrid player and coach. United and Fulham will face off in what promises to be a pivotal fixture for both clubs’ ambitions this season.