If Manchester United fans were to name the biggest unexpected positive from a wretched 2024/25 season, it would arguably be Ayden Heaven.
The youngster signed from Arsenal took to senior football at Man Utd with remarkable ease, showing the composure and confidence that rarely comes to players who have played for years.
Ayden Heaven was a surprise for Ruben Amorim as well, who considered him an academy signing, but by the end of the season, he was a first-team fixture.
However, there was intense interest in his services when United snapped him up. As per Heaven himself, one moment made his mind up.
Bruno Fernandes celebrating late winner for Man Utd vs Ranger in Europa League 2024/25
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Game that sold Man Utd to Ayden Heaven
Much has been written about the charm offensive that United laid out for Heaven to convince the player to choose them over others.
The likes of Barcelona were circling so, securing the signature of the defender was quite a coup for Jason Wilcox and Co.
Speaking to The Athletic, Heaven has now revealed the moment his mind was made up, and he chose United as the next club in his development. It included a finishing touch from Sir Alex Ferguson.
He said: “[Europa League game against Rangers] was the game that made my mind up, really, because I’ve never been to a louder stadium than that.
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“It was really noisy and the staff in the directors’ box were really kind. I saw myself playing in that team while I was watching. I felt like three at the back would suit me.”
United won that game courtesy of a late goal, something that is quintessential Man Utd, so Heaven got the proper experience of an Old Trafford that was rocking under the lights after a late goal.
Heaven has become a Man Utd favourite
It is poetic that the Old Trafford that convinced Heaven to sign for United now regards him as a favourite, eagerly waiting for him to build on his breakout season.
His playing style has quickly made him a favourite of the fans, as his combination of poise on the ball and physicality with pace makes him an ideal modern defender.
He has all the tools to become a mainstay in that defence for the next decade and beyond, and along with Leny Yoro, form the spine of the team.
To get all that for barely more than a million is some serious business, and an example to which Ineos can point now that they’re facing criticism in this transfer window.
Heaven has got all the tools to be a superstar, and in an indirect manner, the club can thank Bruno Fernandes for helping them seal his signature.
After all, he was the one who scored that late winner vs Rangers in injury time, which sealed Heaven’s choice!