Baleba hobbles off in tears as hamstring injury mars United's Champions League clash with Roma

Carlos Baleba suffered an apparent hamstring injury early in the second half of Manchester United’s Champions League fixture against Roma, leaving the field in visible distress and being replaced by Youri Tielemans.

The 22-year-old midfielder had made a promising run through Roma’s defence and into their penalty area when he suddenly stopped, clutching his right hamstring and sinking to the turf. Medical staff came on to treat Baleba, who covered his face as he received attention, and it quickly became clear he would not be able to continue.

Tielemans was brought off the bench as a direct replacement, while Baleba hobbled back toward the dugout accompanied by a club physio.

Former England striker Alan Shearer, on commentary, described the moment: “For the first time they were able to unlock that back five with a run in behind and a pass into the path of Baleba. He did ever so well to get there, and I think once he gets to that byline is he going to cross it, and then all of a sudden you see him pull up with that right hamstring, and it doesn’t look good at all.”

Baleba joined United in the summer and the injury represents a significant blow to the club, with the nature of a hamstring complaint typically raising concerns over an extended absence. The full extent of the damage will not be known until further assessment is carried out.