Man Utd gave their season a shot in the arm with Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford. Bruno Fernandes broke the deadlock shortly after Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez received a red card, and Casemiro scored again. Even after the referee sent off Casemiro in first-half stoppage time, United held on while Trevoh Chalobah pulled one back late. The victory ended a four-week winless run, easing some pressure on Ruben Amorim as United look ahead to matches against Brentford and Sunderland before facing Liverpool after the October international break.
Baleba and the January Window
Man Utd remain linked with Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba. A summer approach fell through due to Brighton’s steep valuation, reportedly similar to the £115 million Moises Caicedo deal to Chelsea in 2023. With United struggling for control in midfield this season, Baleba could return to the club’s radar in January. His ability to break up play and drive the team forward makes him a prime target if United decide to strengthen the engine room during the winter window.
Kobbie Mainoo’s Uncertain Path
Former United defender Phil Jones has suggested that Kobbie Mainoo may consider a move if his playing time remains limited. Mainoo impressed in previous seasons, but with the manager favouring Bruno Fernandes in central midfield, opportunities are scarce. Jones believes that by Christmas or January, if Mainoo hasn’t featured enough, a loan move could become likely. Without European football to offer rotation opportunities, Mainoo faces a challenging path to consistent minutes at Old Trafford.
Author’s Opinion
United’s midfield remains the key area to monitor. The arrival of Baleba in January could inject some life, but the Mainoo scenario is an example as to why squad management needs to be managed with care. Amorim will have a little bit of time now to consolidate his position, but decisions in the transfer market will play a major role in shaping United’s campaign.
