Manchester United fans may have another reason to be excited after Carlos Baleba reportedly made an impressive impact against Tottenham, with former midfielder Owen Hargreaves praising the youngster’s qualities and comparing him to two familiar names at Old Trafford.
According to comments shared by @UTDAlex8, Hargreaves was impressed by what Baleba brought to the midfield, suggesting that the player needed only 30 minutes to demonstrate why he could be an important addition to the team.
The comparison was a big one. Hargreaves likened Baleba’s passing ability to Paul Pogba while highlighting similarities between his defensive work and the qualities of Casemiro.
Baleba Shows His Quality in Midfield
One of the most impressive aspects of Baleba’s performance was reportedly his ability to contribute both on and off the ball.
His long-range passing caught attention, with Hargreaves suggesting that the youngster displayed the kind of distribution associated with Pogba. However, it was not just his passing that stood out.
Baleba’s movement, ability to recover possession and work rate also reminded Hargreaves of Casemiro.
Combining those qualities in one midfielder would be a valuable asset for Manchester United, particularly as the club continues to look for the right balance between defensive stability and attacking creativity.
Although comparisons with established players can create excitement, Baleba would still need to deliver consistently before earning such a reputation.
Mainoo Could Benefit From Baleba’s Presence
Another important talking point was the potential partnership between Baleba and Kobbie Mainoo.
Hargreaves suggested that Mainoo had been carrying much of the midfield responsibility before Baleba’s introduction, with the team struggling to establish control in the middle of the pitch.
Baleba’s arrival reportedly brought a different energy to the game, giving Mainoo another midfielder capable of winning possession, keeping the ball and helping the team move forward.
For United, this kind of partnership could prove important. Mainoo is comfortable receiving the ball and linking play, while a midfielder who can recover possession quickly and cover ground could help create more balance in the team.
If the two players develop a strong understanding, United could have a midfield combination capable of contributing in both defensive and attacking situations.
Manchester United Still Have Work to Do
Despite the excitement surrounding Baleba’s reported performance, Hargreaves’ overall message was that Manchester United still need to address other areas before they can seriously compete again.
The club has been searching for greater consistency, better control in midfield and a more reliable overall structure. A player with Baleba’s reported qualities could help, but one impressive appearance would not solve every problem.
United need their midfielders to work together, maintain possession under pressure and protect the defence when the opposition attacks.
Baleba’s performance, as described in the reported comments, offers an encouraging glimpse of what the team could achieve with the right players and tactical balance.
For now, the biggest question is whether he can maintain that level and turn the early excitement into consistent performances.
If he does, Manchester United may have found a midfielder capable of making a significant difference to their long-term plans
