Mikel Arteta has praised Ayden Heaven, calling him “remarkable,” as the Arsenal youngster edges closer to completing a move to Manchester United.
The 18-year-old defender is on the verge of finalizing a January transfer to Old Trafford, with only formalities remaining. Heaven is set to become the third defensive signing for the Red Devils this month, following agreements for Paraguayan talent Diego Leon and Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu.
Arteta, who has closely monitored Heaven’s progress at Arsenal, has spoken highly of the young defender’s potential and character.
Reflecting on Heaven’s performance against Manchester United during a pre-season clash, the Arsenal manager remarked, “I don’t know how many players at his age can perform like that on such a big stage. Yes, he lost a duel to Rasmus Hojlund—one of the fastest and strongest players in the world—but his reaction, composure, and body language afterward were truly remarkable. I’m very happy with him.”
Heaven himself expressed pride in his pre-season achievements, sharing on Instagram, “Proud moment for me and my family last night—starting and making my debut for the first team during pre-season! Many more to come!”
The young defender’s development has been a bright spot for Arsenal this season. Heaven earned his senior debut in the Carabao Cup against Preston, where he reflected on the significance of the milestone. “I’ve waited a long time for this moment,” he said. “I’m just happy and thankful to my teammates, my family, and everyone who helped me get here. I feel Mikel has trust in me, and that’s a big part of what gave me confidence for my competitive debut.”
Should the transfer go through, Heaven will join another former Arsenal player at United, Chido Obi-Martin. The 17-year-old forward left Arsenal for Manchester United in the summer and has hit the ground running, scoring nine goals in nine appearances for the Red Devils’ youth teams, including a hat-trick against Nottingham Forest in October.
Before his departure, Obi-Martin had nothing but praise for Arteta, saying, “He always says nice things and praises me, which makes me proud. I had dreams of staying at Arsenal for a long time.”
Now, with Heaven set to follow a similar path, Manchester United looks to be assembling a promising core of young talent, further strengthening their squad for the future.
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