Man United defender Ayden Heaven earns glowing Michael Carrick verdict after Champions League test

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has heaped praise on rising defensive talent Ayden Heaven. Heaven made his first UEFA Champions League start against Atletico Madrid in the midweek and impressed in an unfamiliar left-back role.

Carrick was particularly impressed by the maturity and composure the 20-year-old displayed on such a demanding European stage. com ):"Ayden's a young player who has some fantastic attributes.

He's got a knack of not being fazed and, certainly when you're playing here and in some of the bigger games, like when he stepped in at Chelsea with Nous [Mazraoui], he carries himself very well." Heaven has a big future at United The former Arsenal academy starlet has been a bright signing for United. Despite his age, Heaven has stepped up when the team have needed him most, once again showcasing his potential with a composed display against Atletico Madrid.

With injuries leaving Carrick short of options at left-back, the young defender was handed an opportunity in an unfamiliar position and did not let his manager down. The young Englishman has endured a tough start to the 2026-27 season.

He had been named in the starting XI twice before the Atletico encounter, but costly mistakes contributed to defeats against Hull City and Brighton & Hove Albion. Heaven is still learning his trade, and occasional errors are part of the development process for a young defender adjusting to the demands of senior football.

Naturally left-footed and comfortable operating at centre-back, Heaven could eventually emerge as a long-term successor to Lisandro Martinez at Old Trafford. The Red Devils will face Leeds United in the Premier League tomorrow.

If Luke Shaw is unavailable, Heaven could get another starting opportunity at left-back.