Despite featuring in a sporadic role throughout the first half of 2025/2026, Manchester United fans mightn’t see much of Ayden Heaven for the remainder of the term.
Since the start of the season, the centre-half has featured 11 times in total, with eight of his Premier League appearances coming from the off.
How is Ayden Heaven faring this campaign?
(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Heaven was called upon in the absence of Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire, hence why he has since dropped to the bench following the latter’s return from injury.
He played throughout the final matches of Ruben Amorim’s tenure before retaining his place for the league clash away to Burnley under Darren Fletcher.
Following Michael Carrick’s appointment, Heaven was utilised in the dying embers of United’s Manchester derby triumph via a one-minute cameo, but was an unused option for the subsequent wins over Arsenal and Fulham.
Why Heaven is unlikely to play again before summer
Ayden Heaven shields his eyes from the sun at Elland Road
(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
United having no Europe or cup action to account for from now until the summer means game time will be incredibly hard to come by for the 19-year-old, with Maguire, De Ligt, Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro all ranking above him in the pecking order.
“Heaven was in the first team around Christmas but, given the lack of games, might not play again this season. He needs to develop and United’s view is that he can do that in training,” said The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell when weighing in on the youngster’s situation.
Details on Michael Carrick’s winning start at Man United.
Shorter sessions, one-on-one chats, dressing room debriefs.
Steve Holland a key figure. Told players he wants hard work in training or they’ll be sent in early.@AndyMitten @cmckennasport ⬇️https://t.co/BWW0F1VjF1
— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) February 6, 2026
Last Sunday marked a year since Heaven joined the club from Arsenal in a four-and-a-half-year deal. In total, he has made 18 senior appearances.
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