Teenager Ayden Heaven Starts for Man United, Because De Ligt is...

Man United's starting XI has a surprise inclusion today: the 19-year-old Ayden Heaven. The young centre back has been called upon by Ruben Amorim to replace Matthijs de Ligt in the starting lineup. Amorim hinted earlier that two of his players could miss the clash against West Ham on Thursday, but didn't mention the names, as that could have changed the approach he took towards the game. This will be Ayden Heaven 10th senior appearance for the club, after making his senior debut in the Premier League against Arsenal on 9th March, 2025. However, his very first senior game came against Fulham, where he came on as a substitute in the fifth round of the FA Cup this year.

The youngster made his first start for Man United on 13th March, 2025, in a Round of 16 match against Real Sociedad in the UEFA Europa League. Matthijs De Ligt injury has come as a boon for the youngster, who has found a place in the Man United starting XI again. These minutes will surely give him the confidence he needs to establish himself as a starter at his club going forward.