via Reuters
Manchester United conceded 50 goals in the Premier League last season despite a third-placed finish, and they are currently on course to concede even more this season following their opening three matches.
Despite facing two newly-promoted clubs and another team with a squad lacking in depth, Man United have conceded six goals, and Michael Carrick will know that they need to tighten up if they are to finish in the top four again this term.
Last year, the Red Devils had few distractions beyond the Premier League, but this season they have the Champions League to contend with, starting this week when they host Sabah and Manchester City at Old Trafford in the space of three days.
After transforming their attack and midfield over the course of the last two summer transfer windows, the expectation may be that they do the same with the defence next summer.
United looked at the possibility of bringing in a new left-back alongside their triple midfield addition this summer, but they were unable to get deals across the line for the likes of Newcastle United's Lewis Hall and Barcelona's Alejandro Balde, despite showing interest in both players.
With Matthijs de Ligt still returning to fitness after a long-term back injury and £60m man Leny Yoro down the pecking order, Carrick's go-to back four this season has consisted of three players that were signed between 2014-2019 in Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot and Harry Maguire.
While those players did help United finish third last season, their consistency is often called into question, and the start of this season has only further highlighted the need for a defensive reboot sooner rather than later.
The start to the campaign defensively has been so concerning that the Red Devils have begun to be linked with free-agent options, like David Alaba and Sergio Ramos, but Manchester Evening News journalist Ty Marshall has denied any interest in bringing in a new player on a free transfer, saying they aren't good enough.
From what I have been told, United aren’t looking at the free agent market. Many of these players available are past their best; [Sergio] Ramos and [Dani] Carvajal certainly fit that description. Others have been released because their games have regressed, such as Alaba.
“Essentially, they are free agents for a reason, but they are also players who, in the past, have been paid very handsomely. They don’t fit the recruitment model that INEOS have introduced at Old Trafford.”
Baleba Can Solve Two Man United Issues
via Reuters
United wanted a number six to replace the massive void left by Casemiro's exit during the summer, and Baleba is the midfield addition that fits the bill the most.
While Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans are good midfield players, they don't offer the same strength, power and defensive protection that the Cameroon international will bring to the XI.
Carrick will have been frustrated that he hasn't been able to call upon the 22-year-old yet because of injury, but there is some hope that he will be available for the game before the international break in 12 days' time.
Baleba's presence in the United engine room should give the defence the added protection they clearly need, and director of football Jason Wilcox was effusive in his praise for the midfielder after he signed.
Carlos is an elite midfielder with immense potential to develop further. He brings a unique combination of qualities that will really complement our squad.
“We are delighted to further strengthen our midfield with the addition of another established senior international with a proven track record of performing in the Premier League.
"Carlos’ determination to join Manchester United and his confidence that we will achieve our shared ambitions mean that he is the perfect signing as we continue to build a dynamic and entertaining team ready to compete across multiple competitions.”
The big positive of Baleba is that the club also reportedly believe that he can play at left-back too if needed.
||
Baleba's Best Stats (PL 2025-26)
Speed
Sprinting
Number of sprints
Aerial duels won
Interceptions
Possession won final third
It is the one position where United are short of depth, with the club deciding that Patrick Dorgu is more suited to a left-wing role, leaving Luke Shaw as the main option.
The Englishman was much improved against Everton on Sunday, but he has come under fire for his performances against Hull City and Ipswich Town.
Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot are able to play there if needed, but they aren't specialist options and neither is Baleba.
But there is the option to use him there if needed, and the club is clearly confident that he will perform well for them even if he is out of position.
Matheus Cunha at Manchester United
Matheus Cunha at Manchester United