Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has shown confidence in young defender Ayden Heaven, hinting that the 18-year-old could be set for a consistent run in the first team. Heaven joined United from Arsenal in January for £1.5 million and has quickly adapted to life at Old Trafford.
The teenager made his debut in the FA Cup defeat to Fulham earlier this month and was brought on at halftime against Arsenal last weekend to replace the injured Leny Yoro. Heaven was then handed his first start in Thursday’s 4-1 Europa League victory over Real Sociedad, where he impressed in central defense.
With Lisandro Martinez out for the season and Yoro sidelined for this weekend’s clash against Leicester City, Heaven could make his first Premier League start. Amorim praised the youngster’s confidence, pace, and defensive awareness, calling him “quite complete” despite his limited experience.
“If he continues like that, he’s going to play,” Amorim said. “In the Premier League, he will face different challenges, but we are managing him carefully because he is still very young.”
Heaven’s rapid rise has surprised many, considering he had only one senior appearance for Arsenal before joining United. However, with United’s defensive injuries piling up, Amorim appears ready to trust the young talent.
The defender’s composure and ability to handle high-pressure situations were evident against Real Sociedad, where he was preferred over Victor Lindelof. His performance has boosted his chances of starting against Leicester this weekend.
Manchester United have already defeated Leicester three times this season, including a dramatic FA Cup win sealed by Harry Maguire’s late header. With Maguire potentially returning from injury and Heaven eager to prove himself, United will aim for another vital win before the international break.
If Heaven continues to perform at this level, he could establish himself as a key part of United’s defense for the remainder of the season, filling the void left by Martinez and Yoro’s absences.
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