Carrington Calling: Inside Carlos Baleba’s Emotional First Interview as a Manchester United Player

When a long-pursued transfer finally crosses the finish line, the relief and excitement are palpable. For 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba, his £70 million move from Brighton & Hove Albion to Manchester United represents far more than just a step up in his career—it is the fulfillment of a childhood promise.
In a candid behind-the-scenes interview captured during his first official day at the Carrington Training Complex, Baleba opens up about his idol, his roots, and what it truly feels like to wear the iconic Red Devils shirt.

Inspired by Greatness: Following in Pogba’s Footsteps

Every elite midfielder has a blueprint, and for Baleba, that blueprint was forged watching Old Trafford from afar. When asked about his footballing idols growing up, he didn’t hesitate to name former Manchester United star Paul Pogba.

“When I was younger, my football idol was Paul Pogba. I share similar attributes… like when I drive the ball.”

Reflecting on his previous trips to Old Trafford as an opposing player, Baleba recalled being struck by the electric atmosphere.

“When I came here to play against United, I was always shocked by the atmosphere. Every time you go in there, it just feels different than any other ground. And when it’s full… the feeling is crazy.”

He even admitted to watching United’s thrilling 5-4 Europa League victory over Lyon as a fan, feeling the energy right through his screen.

A Father’s Legacy and the Cameroon Connection

Behind every star athlete is a driving force. For Baleba, that force is his family—specifically his father, a former striker who instilled a deep passion for the game in him from a young age.

“My dad gave me everything because before that, he played football. He was a striker, and he gave me this passion to play football. When I was a kid, my dad said, ‘You’re gonna play for the biggest club,’ and then he mentioned Manchester.”

Baleba becomes the latest Cameroonian international to represent Manchester United, following in the footsteps of figures like Eric Djemba-Djemba, André Onana, and Bryan Mbeumo.

“The first person to believe in me is my parents—my mum and my dad. My motivation is my mum. Always my mum.”

Reunion with Leny Yoro and Looking to the Future

The move to Carrington also marks a reunion for Baleba, who previously shared the pitch with French defender Leny Yoro during their time together at Lille.

“I’m excited to meet Bryan [Mbeumo] and Leny Yoro. I played with Leny Yoro in Lille. Back then, you never thought you’d be playing again in the same team at Manchester United!”

Baleba also expressed his eagerness to learn alongside club captain Bruno Fernandes, calling the Portuguese playmaker a “midfield magician” and a top-tier leader to learn from.
As he prepares to take the pitch for Michael Carrick‘s side, Baleba signed off with a promise to the United faithful:

“I will give everything for the badge, for the club. I will play 100% of myself.”