Baleba nears United debut as club moves to keep Gabriel from cancelling registration

Manchester United are navigating two significant squad concerns ahead of their Premier League clash with Fulham, with Carlos Baleba edging closer to his debut and teenager JJ Gabriel pushing to leave the club.

Baleba, who joined from Brighton in a £65 million deal, has been sidelined since pre-season after sustaining an ankle injury before he could make a single competitive appearance for United. The 22-year-old Cameroonian has now returned to training, and according to The Athletic, a first-team return could be imminent — though supporters may need to wait until after the international break before he features in a competitive match. Club officials are reportedly considering keeping Baleba at Carrington during the break rather than releasing him to the Cameroon national side, a decision that could accelerate his availability.

The midfielder had been a long-standing target for United and is widely expected to become a central figure in their midfield once fully fit. His return would offer manager Michael Carrick a timely boost after a difficult start to the 2026/27 Premier League season — United have won just one of their first four league matches and were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by Brighton on Wednesday.

Adding to the turbulence at Old Trafford, 15-year-old forward JJ Gabriel has notified the club of his intention to cancel his registration. Gabriel, who has been at United since the age of 11 and won the Premier League Under-18 Player of the Year award last season, has drawn widespread praise for his potential.

United are said to be optimistic they can persuade Gabriel to stay. According to Fabrizio Romano, the club’s approach will not centre on financial incentives but instead on direct dialogue with Gabriel, his family, and his representatives. United also retain the option to formally challenge or reject his cancellation request.

Carrick faces a pivotal weekend, with a win against Fulham capable of easing the pressure that has built steadily since the season began.