Rio Ferdinand believes Carlos Baleba can bring something different to Manchester United’s midfield after completing his move from Brighton.
The 22-year-old has joined United after becoming one of Brighton’s standout players, and Ferdinand is convinced his style will fit well alongside the other midfield options at Old Trafford.
Ferdinand highlights Baleba’s physical qualities
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand pointed to Baleba’s ability to cover ground and compete in midfield.
“He brings that ability to get around the pitch, that physical prowess,” the former United defender said.
Ferdinand also highlighted Baleba’s strength in duels and his ability to stay calm when opponents try to press him.
“I think his duels power is great, his press resistance, and I think more so than most of the others.”
That ability to escape pressure could be particularly useful for Manchester United, who now have several different options in midfield following the arrivals of Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.
Ferdinand believes Baleba can also drive United forward rather than simply winning the ball.
“He can beat the press with the ball but his vertical ball progression with the ball especially… is an asset to this team now and he can do it with real pace.”
That is one of the qualities Ferdinand thinks makes Baleba a good fit for the rest of the midfield.
“I think he complements every other one of those midfielders he’s coming into the team with. Whoever he plays with, he complements them.”
Manchester United have now added another midfielder with a very different profile. Carrick’s challenge will be deciding how best to use him, but Ferdinand already believes Baleba can add power and ball progression to the team.
