Carlos Baleba is learning how quickly football can change and is known for his stamina, dribbling and passing range. Baleba is a complete and powerful central midfielder who can play in a box-to-box role or as a holding midfielder. One strong season turned him into a £100 million name and a serious Manchester United target.
Now Carlos Baleba has finally spoken about the pressure that followed. With United watching again and Brighton setting a new price, his words come at a key moment as the January window begins to shape his future
Carlos Baleba and the rise that changed expectations
Carlos Baleba’s rise at Brighton has been rapid. Last season he stood out for his power on the ball and his calm control in midfield. Those performances made him a key figure under Fabian Hürzeler and quickly brought attention from top clubs.
Manchester United were strongly linked in the summer, with Brighton placing a £100 million value on Carlos Baleba. United eventually stepped away, and Baleba stayed at the Amex. Since then, he has played 16 matches this season and remained a regular starter. However, his form has not always reached last season’s level which led to debate among fans about confidence and focus
Carlos Baleba opens up on pressure and form
Carlos Baleba has now addressed those questions in public. Speaking to Sky Sports, he explained that the transfer talk did not hurt him, but it did create pressure. He said he wanted to match last season’s level straight away, which made things harder for him.
Baleba admitted he placed high demands on himself and accepted that the pressure came from within. Instead of blaming rumours, he described the situation as part of his growth as a player. He stressed that hard work every day is the only way to return to his best.
On the pitch Brighton continue to rely on him in a demanding midfield role. The team ask him to win duels, carry the ball forward and protect the defence. That responsibility can affect consistency, especially for a young player. Even so his strength and ability to drive through midfield remain clear
Those qualities explain why Manchester United are again monitoring him ahead of January. Ruben Amorim wants more balance and energy in midfield. Carlos Baleba still fits that need despite an uneven run of form.
Fan Angle
Brighton fans have been split in their reaction. Some feel Carlos Baleba is getting judged too harshly and point to his effort and discipline. Others believe the big price tag raised expectations to an unfair level.
Manchester United supporters have reacted more positively. Many see his comments as honest and mature rather than worrying. Online discussions suggest fans view him as a long-term project, not a quick fix. Several pundits have echoed that view and praised his calm approach under pressure
Effects of this agreement
The biggest change is Brighton’s valuation. Reports now suggest they could accept offers closer to £74.3 million. That makes a deal more realistic for United, who failed to strengthen midfield in the summer.
Bayern Munich are also tracking Carlos Baleba, but he wants to stay at Old Trafford. Any midfield signing could also affect Kobbie Mainoo, with Napoli interested, though United would rather agree to a loan. January could shape both Baleba’s future and United’s plans
Author’s Opinion
In conclusion, Carlos Baleba has faced the pressure head-on, and transfer interest is rising again. What matters now is his football. This is not the time to think about headlines or price tags; he needs more control and confidence. If he delivers on the pitch, his future will take care of itself.
As featured on ManUNews.com
