Ayden Heaven has started at centre-back in both of Man Utd’s pre-season games so far this summer.
Ayden Heaven opened up on his relationship with Harry Maguire following Manchester United’s 5-0 win over Rosenborg on Friday evening, admitting he “loves” playing alongside the experienced defender.
Heaven has started at centre-back in both of United’s pre-season games so far this summer, taking the chance to partner Maguire in the absence of some of United’s senior stars.
With United awaiting an update on Lisandro Martinez’s injury and Matthijs de Ligt still recovering from back surgery, Heaven may be called upon in the opening weeks of the season. The 19-year-old has shown he has the quality to be a mainstay in the United side for years to come, and he credited Maguire with helping his development.
“I love it, obviously,” he said of playing alongside Maguire. “He helps me a lot. He’s had over 20 years of experience playing. And yeah, he’s always good to play with. He speaks a lot and he always tells me to speak. I always work on that with him.”
Michael Carrick spoke glowingly of Heaven following his display away at Chelsea last season, a game which saw United come away with the three points and a clean sheet despite a defensive injury crisis. Heaven then started in subsequent wins over Liverpool and Brentford before Martinez returned to the team.
Heaven looked disappointed not to get on the pitch on the final day of the season against Brighton, but Carrick was spotted putting his arm around him and passing on a few supportive words.
“He’s played a big part for this club when he played. So that’s the extra boost that he’s given you, to have a compliment. And yeah, we all really trust him. I’m thankful to have him as a coach,” Heaven said of Carrick.
Asked about potentially nailing down a starting role, Heaven said: “I know I’m young, obviously, and I’ve got to be patient, you know, especially in my position. You don’t see a lot of 19-year-olds playing week in, week out.
“I know it’s nothing personal and I’ve just got to be patient. I’m waiting for my opportunity.”
Playing for England at Euro 2028 is Heaven’s target after representing the Three Lions’ Under-21s.
“I could push further than that, maybe try and get into England, the main men’s team. You know, the sky’s the limit. So, yeah, I’ve just got to keep working hard every day,” he said.
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