Carlos Baleba to miss AFCON qualifiers due to injury
Brighton’s rising star, Carlos Baleba, will miss the upcoming international break and Cameroon’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches after sustaining a knee injury during a recent Premier League match against Manchester City. The 20-year-old midfielder, who joined Brighton for €30 million from Lille this past summer, has made an impressive start in England’s top flight but will be sidelined as Cameroon continues its qualification campaign.
Baleba was forced to leave the field at halftime during Brighton’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City, where he had displayed his usual flair and skill.
Following the match, Brighton’s medical staff conducted assessments and worked closely with Cameroon’s national team to evaluate the injury.
Both parties ultimately agreed to rest the player rather than risk aggravating the injury, with Cameroon’s head coach Marc Brys giving his approval for Baleba to remain in England during this international window.
This absence comes as a setback for Cameroon, as Baleba has quickly become a key figure in the national setup since earning his first call-up in June.
🔴 Carlos Baleba devrait manquer le rassemblement des lions indomptables, le milieu de Brighton a rechuté à sa blessure au genou.
Le coach des Seagulls a demandé à Marc Brys qu’il soit ménagé pour la trêve, ce dernier a acceptée la demande.🇨🇲🦁 pic.twitter.com/quJ4w1jCIl
— 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗲𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗶𝘀 🇨🇲🦁 (@JoueursCMR) November 11, 2024
Since then, he has made five appearances for the Indomitable Lions and has impressed with his maturity and technical skill, attributes that have contributed to his rapid rise in European football.
The young midfielder was trained at the Brasseries du Cameroun Football School in Douala, where he honed his craft before moving to Lille and, subsequently, Brighton.
At Brighton, Baleba has showcased his potential as a valuable addition to the Premier League.
In just 11 matches this season, he has already scored twice and provided two assists, proving to be a versatile and effective asset in midfield.
🔴 Carlos Baleba devrait manquer le rassemblement des lions indomptables, le milieu de Brighton a rechuté à sa blessure au genou.
Le coach des Seagulls a demandé à Marc Brys qu’il soit ménagé pour la trêve, ce dernier a acceptée la demande.🇨🇲🦁 pic.twitter.com/quJ4w1jCIl
— 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗲𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗶𝘀 🇨🇲🦁 (@JoueursCMR) November 11, 2024
His performances have won him praise from fans and pundits alike, who have noted his composure on the ball and his ability to make key contributions in high-stakes situations.
Cameroon is preparing for Matchdays 5 and 6 of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers without Baleba, but his absence will undoubtedly be felt.
The team is looking to secure its place in the upcoming tournament, and while Baleba’s talent will be missed, his health and long-term fitness remain priorities for both club and country.
Despite being sidelined for this international break, Baleba’s trajectory continues to be one to watch.
His talent, combined with his rapid adaptation to the demands of the Premier League, indicates a promising future both at Brighton and on the international stage with Cameroon.
The national team will hope to see him back in action for future fixtures as they aim for AFCON qualification and continued success on the field.
🔵 Carlos Baleba dans l’équipe type de la 11e journée de Premier League.
Le milieu de terrain n’a disputé que 46 minutes durant cette journée. 💥🇨🇲 pic.twitter.com/CvbeY6wD8z
— AllezLesLions (@AllezLesLions) November 11, 2024
