Carlos Baleba - General
As per latest injury news, Man United received a major boost this weekend, as Carlos Baleba was in contention to make his long-awaited debut. The midfielder has not played since joining from Brighton in the summer, but Michael Carrick suggested that both Baleba and Luke Shaw could return against Fulham.
Carlos Baleba closing in on United debut
As reported by The Standard, Baleba joined United from Brighton in the summer with the Red Devils paying around £70 million. The 22-year-old arrived with expectations of becoming an important part of the midfield, but he has been out of the squad due to an injury to his ankle suffered in pre-season.
His recovery appeared to be heading towards a return after the international break in October. Carrick had indicated earlier this week that Baleba would probably need more time before being ready for competitive action.
However, the situation has changed quickly. Carrick had confirmed that Baleba had a chance of being involved in United’s trip to Fulham on Sunday. The manager also included Shaw in the same update, although he warned that neither player was certain to feature. Carrick said both players had “a chance” of making the match. He also made it clear that their fitness would still need to be assessed before the game. Baleba was an unused substitute as United drew 1-1 at Craven Cottage, Luke Shaw did not feature.
Shaw also was in contention for Fulham
Shaw was also expected to come back after missing United’s last three matches. The defender has been dealing with an unspecified issue and has not featured since Man Utd’s 2-2 draw against Everton. Carrick described the problem as short-term and said Shaw has been working towards being ready for Sunday’s match. Like Baleba, the left-back still has to prove his fitness before a decision is made.
Getting both players back would give Carrick more choices. United’s squad has already been tested by injuries, while the team has struggled to build momentum. Baleba’s return could be particularly useful because of the role he was expected to play after his summer move. The Cameroon international was signed to strengthen United’s midfield and provide another option where the team has lacked consistency. His first appearance will attract attention and even a short spell from the bench would give Carrick a chance to assess how quickly Baleba can adapt to the pace of English football again.
Carlos Baleba - General
Carlos Baleba - General
Carlos Baleba’s Brighton stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB–
Competition Appearances Chances Created Defensive Contributions Duels Won %
Premier League 31 9 209 50%
FA Cup 1 – 2 75%
EFL Cup 3 3 14 52.2%
Carrick under pressure after poor start
United’s possible returns come at a difficult time for Carrick. The team has collected only 5 points from its opening 5 Premier League matches and was knocked out from the Carabao Cup after losing at home to Brighton. Those results have increased questions about Carrick’s future, but he has insisted the situation is not a disaster. He believes United have shown positive signs despite the results.
Carrick wants to turn those performances into points. Baleba could have helped if he was cleared to play at Fulham, but his appearance on the bench was also a big boost. His return would give United more options in midfield during a difficult start to the season. Shaw’s return would also provide another selection option in defence.
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