Baleba steps up for Manchester United
Both Manchester clubs have faced difficult starts to the season. Michael Carrick is struggling at United, while City are dealing with off field troubles following a guilty verdict. However, two expensive new midfielders are offering hope.
Carlos Baleba cost United 65 million pounds to help rebuild their midfield. His introduction was delayed by an ankle ligament injury before the season began. He made his debut off the bench against Tottenham on October 10, then got his first league start against Leeds on Sunday. Partnering Andrey Santos, the 22 year old Cameroonian completed 88 percent of his passes over 74 minutes.
The Leeds match finished 1-1 after Bryan Mbeumo scored for United and Dominic Calvert-Lewin equalised. That leaves United with six points from six games. Carrick praised his young midfield pairing after the game, saying, "They're both young players adapting to life at this football club, and I thought both of them were terrific today." Former United striker Teddy Sheringham noted it will take at least six months for Baleba to prove himself.
Bouaddi shows his quality at City
Across town, 19 year old Ayyoub Bouaddi made his first Premier League start against Ipswich. City paid 85 million pounds for the Moroccan international, who is viewed as a successor to Rodri.
Bouaddi was central to City's display. He registered 93 touches and completed seven line breaking passes. He was also strong defensively, making three tackles, one interception, three clearances, and winning seven ground duels.
City manager Maresca kept his response grounded after the game, saying, "Not bad." He added, "Ayyoub is very good. He's very young, coming from France, so we need to help him, not put him under pressure every game. I think he is doing well."
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