Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler has revealed tough love has been the key to helping Carlos Baleba return to form ahead of Saturday’s clash with Manchester United. The Cameroon international was wanted by the Red Devils in the summer, but they opted to walk away from discussions after learning the south coast club's valuation of the midfielder.
United ended talks for Baleba after discovering Brighton's asking price
United targeted Baleba as they looked to strengthen in the middle of the park before the summer transfer window closed. However, after widespread reports indicated Brighton would not sell Baleba for less than the £115 million (€132m/$153m) they received from Chelsea for Moises Caicedo in 2023, United decided to end negotiations with Hurzeler’s side.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportMidfielder made slow start to 2025-26 after summer of speculation
And following an intense summer of speculation surrounding his future, Baleba subsequently made a slow start to the 2025-26 campaign. Having established himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising midfielders following his move from Lille in 2023, the 21-year-old has not completed a full 90-minute match so far this season.
Cameroon international impressed in Brighton's win over Newcastle
However, Baleba may have turned a corner after impressing in Brighton’s 2-1 victory over Newcastle last Saturday. While he was substituted once again, the Seagulls’ number 17 played a key role in helping his side stretch their unbeaten run to five games in all competitions. In addition to their win over Newcastle, Brighton have also earned victories over Chelsea in the league and Barnsley in the Carabao Cup, while they recorded draws with Tottenham and Wolves during the same run.
Getty Images SportHurzeler explains how he has managed Baleba following United's pursuit
And Brighton boss Hurzeler has since lifted the lid on how he is helping Baleba slowly rediscover his form, urging the defensive midfielder to take responsibility for his performances by putting United’s interest to the back of his mind.
In an interview with Hurzeler said of Baleba’s display against Newcastle: “I saw a Carlos Baleba who stepped up.
“These were good actions and good behaviours he showed, but he has to make habits out of those good behaviours. That's the next step in his development, to bring consistency to his performance.
“For me, it's always important that I'm very transparent with the players. I have a very good relationship with Carlos. We speak regularly, we are in touch. I always share my thoughts about his development and my thoughts about his performance.
“It's important to be very clear about what you expect from players on the pitch, off the pitch. And it's important to build relationships where you can criticise or give personal feedback they might not be happy about, but they understand the intention behind it.
“Carlos won't get better if he only gets compliments and claps from outside. I think he will get better if he has a safe environment, but also honest feedback where he knows what he needs to improve. That's where we try to support him and make him better.”