Carlos Baleba return prompts competition for Manchester United midfield spots

Manchester United midfielder Youri Tielemans faces potential loss of his starting role upon the return of Carlos Baleba. Baleba, the club's most expensive summer signing, is currently sidelined with an ankle injury sustained during pre-season. Manchester Evening News journalist Tyrone Marshall predicts that once healthy, Baleba and Kobbie Mainoo will form the primary central midfield duo for major matches. Andrey Santos remains in the squad rotation while awaiting further opportunities to impress manager Michael Carrick. United prepares for a Champions League fixture against Sabah on Thursday, followed by a Manchester City encounter and a Carabao Cup match against Brighton. Baleba is expected to be available for selection by mid-to-late September.

• 7:25 AMYahoo Sports — ‘I would expect…’: MEN journo predicts £35m Man Utd man will lose his place after starting all three PL games