Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba enduring frustrating spell at Brighton

Cameroon international Carlos Baleba currently find himself on the fringes of Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler’s plans as the season nears conclusion.

Once one of the breakout performers for the Seagulls, Baleba is now enduring a frustrating spell marked by reduced minutes and growing uncertainty over his role in the squad.

The midfielder, who made a strong impression last season with his energy, ball progression, and physical presence in midfield, is struggling to maintain his place in the current setup.

That trend continued on Saturday during Brighton’s 2-2 draw away at Tottenham on Matchday 33 of the Premier League, where Baleba remained on the bench for the entire match. Despite the intensity and demands of the contest, he was not called upon at any stage, underlining his declining involvement in key fixtures.

In fact, the pattern has been consistent over recent weeks. Baleba has played just 31 minutes across Brighton’s last four matches, a sharp drop for a player who was once seen as a key part of the club’s midfield rotation and long-term project.

The latest omission has fuelled questions about his standing under Hurzeler, who appears to be favouring other options in midfield as Brighton push through the final stretch of the campaign. Tactical adjustments and increased competition for places have further limited Baleba’s opportunities to make an impact.

For a player who earned widespread attention last season for his maturity and dynamism in midfield, the current situation represents a clear setback. His reduced involvement comes at a time when consistency and game time are crucial for development, particularly for a young international seeking to solidify his place both at club and national level.

Brighton, meanwhile, continue to rotate their midfield options as they balance form, fitness, and tactical flexibility. However, Baleba’s absence from key moments suggests he is currently outside Hurzeler’s preferred core group.

With the season entering its final stages, the Cameroonian will be hoping for a late opportunity to reassert himself and reclaim a more significant role. For now, though, his situation remains one of the more notable selection questions within the Brighton squad.