---
title: "Carlos Baleba Injury Update: Midfielder Nears Rapid Brighton Clash"
canonical: "https://readbrighton.com/2026/08/28/carlos-baleba-injury-update-brighton-reunion/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "Brighton Injury News"
published: "2026-08-28T16:08:53Z"
modified: "2026-09-22T11:52:42Z"
---

# Carlos Baleba Injury Update: Midfielder Nears Rapid Brighton Clash

[Carlos Baleba](https://readbrighton.com/tag/carlos-baleba/) is targeting a swift return to fitness that could see the midfielder make his [Manchester United](https://readmanutd.com/2026/08/28/man-utd-without-carlos-baleba-and-amad-for-ipswich-clash/) debut against Brighton in the Carabao Cup.

## Carabao Cup Draw Sets Stage for Immediate Baleba Reunion

The third-round cup tie creates an immediate Old Trafford encounter between the midfield anchor and his former side following his £70 million transfer.

## Carrick Outlines Midfield Ankle Recovery Timeline

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick provided a positive fitness update on the midfielder ahead of their Premier League clash against Ipswich.

Carrick said: “He’s got a little ankle issue, so maybe a couple of weeks or so, maybe three weeks.”

The manager added: “We’ll see but we knew that before, so it’s no major issue but it’ll be great to have him back when we can.”

## Tactical Breakdown for Fabian Hürzeler at Old Trafford

Facing their former anchor presents an intriguing midfield challenge for Brighton head coach [Fabian Hürzeler](https://readbrighton.com/tag/fabian-hurzeler-2/).

Carrick highlighted the physical and technical qualities the player brings to Manchester: “I think the quality that he has, the attributes that he has that offsets a little bit of the balance of the group that we’ve got. Different strengths, different combinations.”

The United boss also stated: “I think huge potential, massive potential. I think he’s a really exciting signing for us.”

## Potential Fixture Details and Debut Role

Albion’s trip to Old Trafford is anticipated in mid-September. Whether deployed from the start or introduced from the bench, Baleba’s powerful ball-carrying will provide a stern test for the Seagulls.