Manchester United may need to field midfielder Carlos Baleba at left-back during the upcoming campaign. Sportskeeda reported this week that the summer signing could be used in an unnatural defensive role due to a shortage of options.
The club currently sits 10th in the Premier League table, having taken three points from their opening two matches. They failed to strengthen their defense in the transfer window, a department that conceded four goals in games against newly promoted teams. This has led to warnings about the team's fragility.
The management opted to continue with Luke Shaw as the preferred option on the left side of defense. Despite links to players like Alejandro Balde and Chelsea's Lewis Hall, no deal was completed before the deadline. This leaves the squad exposed in a key area, especially with a busy Champions League schedule ahead.
Last season's defensive issues, including difficulty keeping clean sheets and vulnerability on set-pieces, have not been addressed. The team's current goal difference stands at +1, having scored five and conceded four in the league so far.
Carlos Baleba, the £70 million arrival from Brighton in August 2026, is reportedly a primary candidate to deputize. He was bought to bolster the midfield after Casemiro's exit but may now see time in defense. Other players who could be considered include Noussair Mazraoui, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, and Patrick Dorgu.
Club legend Gary Neville has been vocal about the problems. He claimed the Red Devils' defense is shaky and lacks a coherent structure. "There isn't a back four there," Neville stated, forecasting further difficulties for the 2026-27 term.
Using a central midfielder at full-back is a significant compromise. It highlights the squad's imbalance and could become a recurring issue when injuries strike or during periods of high-pressure fixtures. United are already three points off the pace set by Manchester City at the top of the table.
The focus must shift to maximizing the resources at hand. The next test is an away match against Everton on September 6. Fans can follow the team's schedule on our fixtures page and check the latest player availability on the injuries list.
Michael Carrick's immediate task is to solidify a defensive unit that appears vulnerable. The decision to not recruit a left-back may force unconventional selections for much of the season.
