Manchester United’s Carlos Baleba sidelined for up to three weeks before Old Trafford opener

Michael Carrick says new Manchester United signing Carlos Baleba could be unavailable for “two or three weeks” because of a minor ankle problem, delaying the midfielder’s involvement after his £70m move from Brighton.

Baleba, 22, joined Manchester United shortly before Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Ipswich Town, but Carrick confirmed that the Cameroon international will not be ready to make his first appearance for the club this weekend.

The manager said the issue was already known before the transfer was completed and insisted there was no major concern over the player’s condition.

“He has a small problem with his ankle which may keep him out for two or three weeks, but we were aware of that beforehand so there is no major problem,” Carrick said. “It will be great to have him with us as soon as he is ready.”

Carrick was speaking at his pre-match news conference on Friday, ahead of Manchester United’s first home game of the season at Old Trafford. The fixture comes after his side lost 2-0 away to newly promoted Hull City in the opening round of the Premier League.

The former Manchester United midfielder said the club were determined to respond against Ipswich Town and return to winning ways.

“The first match at home this season is the event we have been looking forward to hugely,” he said. “We had a setback last week and want to get back to performing well and winning matches. We have a good squad and can select different combinations, with everyone competing strongly for a place.”

Carrick also provided an update on the fitness of Amad Diallo and Mason Mount. Diallo will miss this weekend’s fixture and is expected to be absent for slightly longer, while Mount has resumed training with the squad.

“Amad will not be available this week and will be out for a little longer, while Mason returned to training with the group this week, which is hugely positive for us,” Carrick said.

Despite Baleba’s delayed arrival on the pitch, Carrick spoke enthusiastically about what the new signing could offer Manchester United. He believes the midfielder’s qualities will provide greater balance and give the team more tactical options.

“He has tremendous ability and qualities, and it is a really exciting signing for us,” Carrick said. “The quality and characteristics he brings give the group balance and allow for different options. I am very happy we signed him, especially because he has so much to offer in the future.”

The manager was also asked about Manchester United’s Under-21 side, who defeated Ipswich Town 5-0, and the performance of teenage forward JJ Gabriel.

“I thought the youngsters put in an excellent performance with a very strong team,” Carrick said. “The quality, the spirit and everything about the game was excellent. JJ is one of those young players and he clearly has a lot of talent. He has trained with us a lot, is gaining experience all the time and is gradually adapting to each step he takes.”

Carrick also discussed the future of defender Harry Amass and whether the young player could leave on loan.

“It always comes down to the make-up of the squad and deciding whether loan options are right or not,” he said. “We are trying to do the best for every player while also keeping the group strong. I am very happy with Harry. He had an excellent season despite the unfortunate way it ended with injury, and it was great to have him with us during pre-season because he performed very well. We will see what happens later after his outstanding display in the last match.”