STWF Sports| Nov. 15, 2025 – Carlos Baleba’s international disappointment has quickly become the backdrop to renewed questions about his long-term future at Brighton & Hove Albion. The 21-year-old midfielder, who has already been linked heavily with Manchester United in recent months, ignited fresh speculation on Thursday night after posting a cryptic message on social media just hours after Cameroon’s World Cup hopes were shattered.

Baleba started Thursday’s tense World Cup qualifying play-off semi-final against DR Congo, earning his 11th international cap for the Indomitable Lions. However, a yellow card in the first half altered the trajectory of his evening. Cameroon manager Rigobert Song elected to remove him at the interval to avoid the risk of a second booking, and the substitution shifted the midfield balance at a critical moment.

His absence was felt during a cagey second period that ended in heartbreak. DR Congo struck a stoppage-time winner, eliminating Cameroon and ending their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The defeat also halts what could have been Cameroon’s fourth World Cup appearance in five tournaments, after reaching the finals in 2010, 2014 and 2022.

Baleba’s Cryptic Post Raises Eyebrows

Following the loss, Baleba reshared a message on his Instagram story featuring former Brighton teammate João Pedro alongside a motivational quote. While the wording of the post wasn’t directly about his future, the timing—and the fact that he chose a message from a recently transferred teammate—has sparked waves of online discussion. Supporters in both England and Cameroon quickly noticed the symbolism, interpreting the post as possible dissatisfaction or a hint toward seeking a new challenge.

This isn’t the first time questions have surfaced regarding Baleba’s trajectory. Over the summer, Manchester United registered strong interest, viewing the energetic box-to-box midfielder as part of their long-term rebuild. But after Brighton reportedly placed a £115 million price tag on the former Lille prospect, talks cooled and Erik ten Hag’s side moved on to alternative midfield options.

Brighton’s Stance and Baleba’s Current Form

Baleba remains contractually secure on the south coast. His current deal runs for another two-and-a-half years, and Brighton hold an option that would keep him at the club until 2029—a timeline that allows the Seagulls to maintain a strong negotiating position should United, or any other Premier League contender, revisit their interest.

His early-season form, however, has been mixed. Under young manager Fabian Hürzeler, Baleba has found himself substituted at half-time in three of Brighton’s first seven Premier League matches, partly due to tactical reshuffling and partly due to inconsistent performances. While his athleticism and press-resistant qualities remain undeniable, the midfielder has yet to fully re-establish himself as an automatic starter following the turbulence of the summer transfer saga.

International Focus Shifts to AFCON

While the World Cup dream is over, Cameroon’s focus now turns to the Africa Cup of Nations next month, where Baleba is expected to play a key role. The tournament presents an opportunity for him to regain confidence and showcase his ability on a continental stage, just as the January transfer window opens.

What Comes Next?

Brighton will be determined to keep hold of their young midfield asset, especially with several Premier League clubs monitoring his situation. Manchester United remain an obvious suitor, but their next move—if any—will likely depend on squad changes set to unfold in the coming months.

Baleba, meanwhile, finds himself at a crossroads. International disappointment, fluctuating club form, and renewed social media intrigue have created a perfect storm of speculation. Whether his latest post reflects frustration, motivation, or something more telling, it’s clear the midfielder’s future will continue to draw heavy attention as the season unfolds.

If United return for him—or if another elite club joins the race—Brighton could once again be tested. For now, all eyes turn to AFCON, where Baleba’s performances may ultimately shape the next chapter of his rapidly rising career.