Carlos Baleba’s Manchester United debut expected to wait until after international break

Carlos Baleba is unlikely to make his Manchester United debut before the international break, according to reports in England.

The Cameroon midfielder suffered an ankle injury in the closing stages of pre-season, just before completing his £70 million move to Old Trafford.

United were aware of the problem but proceeded with the transfer regardless, viewing Baleba as a long-term investment in midfield. The 22-year-old is now expected to miss several weeks as he continues his rehabilitation at the club’s training complex.

If his recovery progresses faster than anticipated, there remains a slim possibility Baleba could feature in a limited role against Fulham on September 20. However, the current expectation is that he will only be fully available after the three-week international break, with the next league fixture against Tottenham on October 10.

The delay means United must navigate the early part of the season without one of their major summer signings. Baleba’s absence places added responsibility on the existing midfield group as they look to establish rhythm and consistency in the Premier League.