Manchester United, the perfect choice for Carlos Baleba

Mbeumo, a Cameroonian guide for Baleba at Old Trafford

Three years after his arrival in the Premier League, Baleba has more than proven his talent and won everyone over at Brighton, who even fought to keep him until this summer. Although several clubs were after him, the 22-year-old Indomitable Lion chose to join Manchester United. A choice that is anything but insignificant.

Indeed, Baleba will reunite there with Bryan Mbeumo, his teammate on the national team. A perfect guide who will make it easier for him to integrate with the Red Devils, as the two men know each other very well. Already speaking English, Carlos Baleba, who will not face a language barrier, therefore has another considerable advantage to quickly settle in at Old Trafford.

Amad Diallo, another African in the Manchester squad, will also help Baleba get to know his new teammates, as will Leny Yoro, with whom he played at Lille before moving to Brighton. With this issue solved, Baleba can set his sights high in terms of importance at the Red Devils.

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 Qualities to aim for a starting spot

Since the departure of Casemiro at the end of last season, Manchester United have signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea to try to fill the gap in this crucial sector for the Red Devils’ balance.  With Manuel Ugarte still sidelined, Michael Carrick requested the signing of a new defensive midfielder and approved the arrival of Carlos Baleba.

A perfect profile to replace the Brazilian legend – all things considered – and enable Manchester United to remain competitive. Even before talking about his technique, which is well above average for a player in his position, it is Carlos Baleba’s composure that is his greatest strength. The 22-year-old midfielder never panics, even when under pressure, and is capable of playing the ball out cleanly. This is crucial in the first transitions.

In fact, he had a pass accuracy rate of 93% in his own half (Stats Sofascore) last season, won 50% of his duels, averaged 1.2 tackles per match, and 3.4 balls recovered per game. Figures that attest to Baleba’s decisive defensive ability, even though he is also able to contribute offensively with his passing quality (78% accuracy in the opponent’s half last season).

Energetic and above all generous with his effort, Carlos Baleba has every chance of claiming a starting place with the Red Devils, with Michael Carrick being an admirer of his, even though he can also use Youri Tielemans as a defensive midfielder.

“It’s an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams” - Carlos Baleba

At Manchester United, Carlos Baleba has signed a five-year contract (until 2031) with another year as an option. The Indomitable Lion has made no secret of his delight after this transfer and hopes to shine at Old Trafford.

“It’s an incredible feeling to join the club of my dreams. Playing at Old Trafford is always special, but having the opportunity to do it as a Manchester United player will be a true honor,” Baleba said.

He went on to add: “I can’t wait to work with Michael Carrick; his experience and knowledge of the game make him the ideal coach to help me reach the highest level. Everyone at the club is extremely ambitious, the future is extremely promising, and I am determined to play my part in achieving the success we are capable of together.”