Carlos Baleba Praises Kobbie Mainoo Before Manchester United Test

Carlos Baleba is preparing for his first Manchester United appearance after joining from Brighton, with the midfielder highlighting Kobbie Mainoo's qualities ahead of the Tottenham Hotspur match at Old Trafford. The 22-year-old returned from an ankle injury and is expected to be involved after missing the start of the season.

According to BBC Sport, United signed Baleba for £70m on 25 August to fill a holding midfield role following Casemiro's departure. The club had struggled early in the campaign, sitting 12th after five Premier League matches with one win and five points.

Baleba's pace has been one of the first traits noticed at United, with a club insider telling BBC Sport he is "Very quick," and adding that he covers ground well. The midfielder had limited training time before appearing on the bench against Fulham in a 1-1 draw.

Baleba recently discussed training with Mainoo alongside Amad Diallo in an interview with Sky Sports. He explained that competing against Mainoo in the same position had impressed him.

"In training playing in the same position he was faster than me. He goes hard on me, but I like that. He's really good." Baleba said.

Mainoo has become a key part of Michael Carrick's midfield plans, starting five of United's seven matches in all competitions this season. His partnership with Youri Tielemans could change when Baleba becomes fully available.

Amad Diallo also praised Mainoo's development and performances after a difficult period. He said Mainoo's experience and ability were remarkable despite his age.

"It's Kobbie Mainoo. How he plays, he has a lot of experience now, for his age he's unbelievable." Amad said.

Amad also described Mainoo's response after facing challenges during Ruben Amorim's time at the club. He credited the midfielder's work and determination.

"He's been pushing because he's come through a difficult moment when Amorim was here. He's worked hard and taken that moment to show that he can be the best player in the league." Amad said.

Former Manchester United winger Lee Sharpe said Mainoo should remain central to Carrick's midfield selection. Sharpe noted that Baleba and Tielemans provide different qualities alongside the England international.

"Having not seen Baleba in a Man United shirt yet, I'm not really sure. I don't think Tielemans has done too badly." Lee Sharpe said.

Sharpe added that Mainoo's performances have made him the most consistent midfielder in the squad so far. He highlighted Mainoo's passing, defensive work and ability to control matches.

"I think the issue at the moment with the whole team is they just don't seem to have played quickly enough as a whole unit." Lee Sharpe said.