Carlos Baleba shares the text message Paul Pogba sent him after joining Man Utd, and it says a lot.
Paul Pogba was the first person to reach out to Carlos Baleba after his move from Brighton to Manchester United was confirmed. Baleba, who has called Pogba his “main idol” while growing up, joined the Reds in August for £65 million plus £5 million in add-ons.
The 22-year-old midfielder from Cameroon was linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer of 2025. However, Manchester United decided not to go for him then because Brighton’s price was £115 million. After a tough 2025-26 season for Baleba, United got him for a much lower fee this time around.
Baleba is set to make his Manchester United debut on Saturday against Tottenham. Before the game, he shared who messaged him first after his transfer was official, and it might surprise some fans. “It was Paul Pogba,” he said. “He told me Manchester is a big club with a great city, and he really enjoyed playing here.”
In his first interview as a United player, Baleba also talked about how important head coach Michael Carrick was in his decision to join the team. “It feels amazing to join the club I’ve dreamed of. I’m excited to work with Michael Carrick. His experience and knowledge will help me reach my best,” Baleba said. “Everyone at the club is very ambitious, and the future looks bright. I’m ready to do my part to help the team succeed.”
Also, United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, spoke about Baleba’s strong desire to play for the club he supported as a kid. “Carlos is determined to join Manchester United and believes in our shared goals. He’s the perfect signing as we build an exciting and competitive team ready to take on many challenges,” Wilcox said.