Key Takeaways:
- Michael Carrick confirmed that Carlos Baleba will be out for up to three weeks with an ankle injury
- Manchester United’s £60 million signing from Brighton will miss Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town
- Mason Mount has returned to training, while Amad Diallo continues to be unavailable due to a training injury
Team Update Ahead of Ipswich Town Encounter
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick revealed that newly acquired Cameroon international Carlos Baleba will be unavailable for selection for approximately three weeks, following an ankle injury. The 22-year-old midfielder, who was recently signed from Brighton for a fee in the region of £60 million, with additional performance-related clauses, is set to delay his anticipated debut with the Red Devils.
🚨🗣️ Michael Carrick: "Carlos Baleba has got a little ankle issue, so maybe a couple of weeks to three weeks out."
"It's no major issue. It will be great to have him back. We are excited to have him. Different strengths, different combinations. So much more to come from him as… pic.twitter.com/9HZkbBbAUt
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) August 28, 2026
During his press conference on Friday, Carrick stated, “He’s got a little ankle issue so maybe a couple of weeks or so, maybe three weeks.” He assured supporters that the club was already aware of the injury prior to finalising the deal, indicating, “But we knew that before, so it’s no major issue. It’ll be great to have him when we can.”
Player Return Timelines and Injury List
Asked about Baleba’s return prior to the international break, Carrick responded, “We’ll wait and see. We’re hopeful, but I don’t want to put any deadlines on it just yet.”
There was more encouraging news regarding Mason Mount, who has made his return to training after being substituted during Manchester United’s 1-1 pre-season draw against Paris Saint-Germain. However, Amad Diallo is set for a longer spell on the sidelines after sustaining an injury in training. Carrick provided the latest: “Amad won’t be involved this week. He’ll be out for a little bit longer.”
United Seek Positive Response in First Home Fixture
The Red Devils are aiming to rebound at Old Trafford in their opening home league match following a 2-0 defeat by newly promoted Hull City in the opening game of the season. Carrick reflected on the upcoming test, stating, “First home game of the season is one we look forward to,” adding, “We’re massively looking forward to the game. We had a setback last week and we want to get back to playing well and winning football matches.”
