Man United star training even on his off day, Michael Carrick needs him to hit the ground running
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It may be an international break, but one Manchester United star is not taking it easy as he looks to make an instant impact for his new club.
After chasing him for over a year, the Red Devils finally managed to land Carlos Baleba this summer, as the Cameroonian became the club’s final signing of the window.
Michael Carrick wanted a midfield revamp, and he got it, but the former Brighton & Hove Albion star arrived injured.
Which meant that the head coach has had to wait to utilise his most costly summer signing. In fact, it is clear that it is the 22-year-old that United have missed the most so far this term.
Carrick badly needs Carlos Baleba in midfield
The 20-time English league champions have largely relied on Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans, and for all their quality on the ball, both are not as adept off it.
This has meant the leaky backline has not had the kind of protection it needs, with Carrick’s team also struggling for intensity.
Carlos Baleba had made the matchday squad for the Fulham game but he did not come on in the end. All eyes are now on the Tottenham Hotspur game after the break to see if the Cameroon international finally earns his first United start.
According to The Manchester Evening News, the defensive midfielder has been busy attending individual training sessions as he seeks to hasten his recovery process.
Dedicated approach to recovery
Most players were granted holidays this past week, but the United No.20 was at it, and officials at United are confident that the Old Trafford side have signed a winner in the African star.
“United will need the Baleba of 2024/2025 to help turn this season around, but there is internal confidence in the highly skilled player they have signed. “Mark my words, he will be a success,” was the message from a source close to the player when United’s deal to sign him was confirmed.
“Baleba has settled in well at Carrington since arriving from Brighton. Sources say that although he was initially a tad shy, his bubbly, fun personality has come out as he has become more comfortable in his new surroundings.
“While the majority of United’s players were given last week off, as is the norm for Premier League clubs, a few squad members reported to Carrington for individual sessions, and Baleba was among them.”
Only time will tell if the £70 million recruit can save Carrick’s job, but his dedication and hard work have already been recognised within the club.
