Carlos Baleba made his first Premier League start for Manchester United as the Red Devils drew 1-1 with Leeds United at Elland Road on Sunday, 18 October 2026.
The 22-year-old Cameroon midfielder was named in Michael Carrick’s starting line-up for the seventh-round fixture, lining up alongside Andrey Santos in the centre of the pitch.
Baleba played 74 minutes before being substituted. He completed 25 of his 29 passes, giving him an accuracy rate of 86%, and also attempted one shot which failed to trouble the target.
He contributed defensively as well, making one successful tackle and committing two fouls during his time on the field.
Although he was unable to make a decisive attacking contribution, the appearance gave Baleba valuable playing time in a Premier League known for its intensity. It also provided another opportunity for him to settle into the Manchester United squad and adjust to Carrick’s demands.
The match at Leeds was Baleba’s second successive start for the club in all competitions. He had previously been selected from the beginning against Atletico de Madrid in the Champions League on 13 October.
That continued backing represents another step in Baleba’s development at Manchester United and could allow him to take on a larger role in midfield during the club’s upcoming fixtures.
The Cameroon international has now started twice in the space of five days, after beginning the Champions League meeting with Atletico de Madrid before returning to the line-up for the trip to Leeds.
Manchester United’s draw at Elland Road leaves Baleba with another important experience of senior football in England, while the midfielder continues to establish himself within the team. His latest performance included a high proportion of accurate passing and defensive involvement, despite his limited attacking impact.
Como will soon face Manchester United in the third round of the Champions League league phase.
