Manchester United: Wayne Rooney gives his seal of approval to Carlos Baleba’s arrival

Wayne Rooney is already a fan of Carlos Baleba. The former Manchester United captain believes the Cameroonian can significantly strengthen United’s midfield.

Wayne Rooney has delivered an especially positive verdict on Carlos Baleba’s arrival at Manchester United. Just hours after the official announcement of the midfielder’s transfer from Brighton, the Red Devils legend praised the profile of the 22-year-old, signed in a deal that could reach £70 million. Baleba has signed a contract until June 2031, with an additional year as an option.

Rooney sees Baleba as the missing piece

Speaking on the Stick to United podcast, Rooney didn’t hide his excitement.

“I really like him, I think he’s a very good signing,” the former England international explained.

For the 2009 Ballon d’Or winner, Baleba especially brings a physical and aggressive dimension that United’s midfield had been lacking.

“He covers the ground really well, he’s aggressive, he wins the ball, and that’s exactly what we need,” he added.

Rooney also believes the Cameroonian’s arrival will create healthy competition with the other midfielders in the squad, notably Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Andrey Santos, and Youri Tielemans. He sees this competition as essential to pushing the group to new heights.

A Premier League-ready reinforcement

Baleba isn’t arriving at Manchester as a mere gamble. Signed by Brighton at a very young age, the Cameroonian international quickly established himself as one of the most promising midfielders in the English top flight.

Last season, he played 31 Premier League matches. His defensive stats highlight his activity: he ranked in the top 8% of players in the league for combined tackles and interceptions, and in the top 1% for second balls won.

His profile perfectly matches Manchester United’s desire for a more intense midfield, capable of recovering possession, covering large areas, and breaking lines with his runs.

Now it’s time to prove himself

For Rooney, the challenge now is to turn that potential into consistent performances in a United shirt. The club has clearly banked on the Cameroonian’s qualities to strengthen the midfield.

Sporting director Jason Wilcox also considers Baleba to be an “elite midfielder” with significant potential.

At Old Trafford, the Cameroonian will soon have the chance to live up to the expectations placed upon him. And with the public backing of a club legend like Rooney, his first steps in United colours will be watched especially closely.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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