Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba has received a firm Brighton warning from manager Fabian Hurzeler ahead of the upcoming Brighton vs Manchester United match. The young midfielder, who continues to attract strong Manchester United transfer interest, has been urged to stay grounded and focused on his game as the spotlight around him grows.
Baleba was one of the most talked-about midfielders during the summer transfer window. Manchester United reportedly targeted him as part of their plan to strengthen their squad, but Brighton stood firm on their £100 million valuation. Despite United’s approach, which even included a player-exchange proposal, the 21-year-old Cameroon international remained with the Seagulls. However, his start to the season has been somewhat uneven.
In several matches, Baleba has been substituted at half-time by Hurzeler, prompting questions about his consistency and confidence. Yet, he looked much sharper last week when Brighton secured an impressive home victory against Newcastle — a performance that suggested he is getting back on track.
Hurzeler delivers honest talk amid Manchester United transfer interest
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has emphasized that Baleba’s improvement depends on how he handles external pressure and constant Manchester United transfer interest. In his interview with Sky Sports, Hurzeler highlighted the importance of honest communication and a strong relationship between player and coach.
“For me, it’s always important to be transparent with my players,” Hurzeler said. “I have a great relationship with Carlos. We talk regularly about his development and performances. It’s vital that players understand exactly what is expected of them — both on and off the pitch.”
The German manager added that players grow most when they receive constructive feedback rather than constant praise. “Carlos won’t get better if he only hears compliments and claps from outside. He’ll improve when he has a safe environment that also gives him honest feedback about what he needs to work on,” Hurzeler explained. “That’s how we support him — by being open and helping him become better every day.”
This kind of tough-love approach could be exactly what Baleba needs as he prepares to face one of the biggest clubs in world football.
Brighton vs Manchester United match seen as test and opportunity
Saturday’s Brighton vs Manchester United match is shaping up to be more than just another Premier League fixture — it could be a personal audition for Carlos Baleba. With ongoing Manchester United transfer interest, the clash at the Amex Stadium offers him a chance to show the Red Devils what he’s capable of on the biggest stage.
According to recent reports, Baleba remains on United’s six-man shortlist of potential midfield targets, which also includes Chelsea’s Andrey Santos and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton. For Baleba, performing well in this fixture could reignite talk of a future move, especially if he can dominate in midfield against United’s experienced players.
Still, Hurzeler wants his player to focus solely on Brighton. The Seagulls are determined to climb the Premier League table, and a strong showing from Baleba could help them do exactly that. The manager’s message is simple — block out the noise, trust the process, and deliver when it matters most.
If Baleba can keep his focus and replicate the energy he showed against Newcastle, this weekend could be a turning point. A commanding performance against Manchester United would not only boost Brighton’s chances but also remind everyone why the club refused to let him go for anything less than a record-breaking fee.
Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba receives a strong warning from manager Fabian Hurzeler ahead of the Brighton vs Manchester United match. With growing Manchester United transfer interest, the 21-year-old is urged to stay focused and deliver his best performance as Premier League fans await a key midfield showdown that could shape his future.
