‘Wherever I play, this club is in how I play’ – Carlos Baleba bids emotional farewell to Brighton after Man Utd move

Carlos Baleba has delivered an emotional farewell to Brighton after completing his £70 million move to Manchester United.

The Cameroon midfielder brought an end to a prolonged transfer saga by finalising his switch to Old Trafford, with United securing the 22-year-old as their third midfield signing of the summer.

Baleba joined Brighton at 19 and quickly developed into one of the Premier League’s most exciting young midfielders. His departure marks the end of a spell in which he established himself as an important figure at the Amex and earned recognition for his powerful and composed displays.

Reflecting on his journey, Baleba admitted Brighton had become far more than just another club in his career.

“I came here at 19 with little English and no idea what this club would become to me,” Baleba wrote on Instagram.

‘You looked after me’

The midfielder reserved special praise for the people who helped him settle in England, from Brighton’s staff to his teammates and supporters.

“Brighton only asked me to be myself. The staff who make the club run so well. The teammates who took the time to understand me, on the pitch and off it. The nights at the Amex when I heard my name from that stand always made me feel at home.”

Baleba also thanked Brighton’s supporters for the role they played in making his time at the club memorable.

“To all of the fans, staff and my team-mates. You looked after me and for that I will hold you all close to my heart.”

United land another midfield reinforcement

His move to Manchester United represents another major step in a rapidly developing career, with the Red Devils adding him to their midfield options as they continue to reshape the squad.

Baleba’s arrival follows a lengthy pursuit and gives United another physically imposing and technically capable option in the middle of the pitch.

Despite leaving Brighton, the midfielder made it clear that his former club will continue to influence his career.

“Wherever I play, this club is in how I play. Good luck Seagulls.”

Baleba now begins a new chapter at Old Trafford, while Brighton prepare to move forward without a player who became a key part of their midfield during his time on the south coast.