Amidst a dismal start at Old Trafford, the Cameroonian powerhouse nears his debut, promising much-needed defensive steel for a midfield struggling to find its rhythm and energy.
Carlos Baleba: What a signing!
More Videos
Manchester United's start to the season has been nothing short of underwhelming, claiming four points from four matches in the Premier League. Last weekend saw a lacklustre performance in the Manchester derby as Michael Carrick's men were outworked by a 10-man Manchester City side in a 1-0 loss at Old Trafford.
This was shortly followed by an embarrassing defeat to Brighton in the Carabao Cup, bowing out in their first outing in back-to-back seasons. Another example of United being completely overrun across the park, with the defence lacking confidence and the midfield lacking energy.
The biggest area of optimism in the Manchester United fanbase comes in the form of former Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, who completed a £70m move to Old Trafford in the summer. The Cameroonian was on United's radar for some time before the move eventually came around, so anticipation around his debut is huge.
Arriving with an initial injury has seen the 22-year-old's debut delayed, but Carrick has shown some great confidence in the midfielder, whose defensive cover is greatly needed in the current squad.
Carrick Optimistic On Baleba's Progress
Speaking with Sky, Carrick explained his view of Baleba after the midfielder's first few weeks at the club.
He said: "He is eager. He's super excited! It's not always easy when you arrive at a new club and you're not yet fully integrated into the group at training, but he handled that very well. He has a great personality, he's bursting with enthusiasm, and he's doing everything he can to get back to competitive action."
Baleba arrives as one of three midfield recruits in the summer alongside Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, which leaves questions over what United's best midfield trio would be with Kobbie Mainoo in good form and captain Bruno Fernandes being an ever-present in the team.
Presumably, Baleba would sit as the deepest midfielder, being the more suited Casemiro replacement when fit, providing the physicality and athleticism to break opposition attacks and keep control of the game.
Manchester United are set to suffer once again after reigniting their interest in Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite.roundtable.ioMan Utd Suffer Same Issue As Everton Respond To Jarrad Branthwaite Interest
Manchester United are set to suffer once again after reigniting their interest in Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite.
When Will Baleba Be Fit?
Baleba suffered an injury in pre-season with Brighton, forcing him onto an individual recovery programme to get back to match fitness. This has left United to rely primarily on Tielemans and Mainoo behind Fernandes in the Premier League.
Conversation of Baleba appearing against Fulham emerged as the midfielder's journey to fitness went well. It is a must-win game for United to get back on track and deliver a confident, convincing performance at Craven Cottage, where United have a great record, with their last loss coming in 2009.
Carrick's encouraging words on Baleba spark hope in the fanbase, but a return would almost definitely come after the international break to ensure that the Cameroonian is not rushed into the squad.
For now, pressure is growing on Carrick as he looks to replicate the highs of last season, when United delivered win after win.