94 million pound signing sidelined

Carlos Baleba arrived at Manchester United from Brighton this summer but has been unable to play due to an ankle injury he carried into the transfer.

Injury arrived with the player

Baleba was already dealing with an ankle problem when he left Brighton, forcing him to miss the club's entire preseason before joining Manchester United.

Recovery timeline looks promising

After weeks of individual training, Baleba is close to joining full team sessions, with manager Michael Carrick confirming he should be ready after the international break.

“He'll be back in and around the group at some point over the next week or so, so that means after the international break, he should be in good shape.”

Missing next two matches

Baleba will sit out the midweek Carabao Cup match against Brighton and the trip to Fulham on September 20, the final game before the international pause.

Cameroon gives him rest time

Baleba has been left out of Cameroon's Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, allowing him to stay in Manchester and build fitness during the international window.

Player eager to get started

Carrick says Baleba is desperate to join full training and become part of the squad after weeks of individual recovery work.

“He's desperate to get out there, be part of the group and train fully with the boys.”

Tottenham could be debut stage

Manchester United's first match after the international break is against Tottenham on October 10, giving Baleba three weeks of full-intensity training.

Extended break helps recovery

FIFA has combined the September and October international windows into one two-and-a-half week pause, giving Baleba extra time to prepare.

Carrick needs him urgently

Manchester United faces a relentless October schedule with eight to nine matches in one month, making Baleba's return crucial for the midfield.

Final piece of midfield puzzle

Baleba was signed as a defensive midfielder to balance the creative abilities of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos in United's rebuilt midfield.

Better deal than last year

United targeted Baleba in 2025 but the 100 million pound price tag was too high. They negotiated a more acceptable deal this summer at 94 million pounds.

Balances midfield dynamics

Carrick values Baleba's defensive presence to complement his other midfielders, particularly in matches against strong opponents where protection is needed.

“He's obviously a quality player. It's why we brought him here and he balances off the dynamics of the midfield particularly well.”