Arsenal academy graduate felt Man United’s style would bring out the best in him

In partnership with

Just Arsenal News

·5. Juni 2025

Arsenal academy graduate felt Man United’s style would bring out the best in him

Former Arsenal academy graduate Ayden Heaven has opened up about his surprise January move to Manchester United, finally shedding light on what motivated the transfer that caught many Gooners off guard.

Having spent five years within Arsenal’s youth system, Heaven was seen as a promising talent. He trained with the first team during the 2023–24 campaign and impressed during the summer tour of the United States. His departure, then, came as a shock, especially considering he had made his senior debut for the Gunners and appeared to be on the fringes of the squad.

OneFootball Videos

Despite that promise, Heaven made just three first-team appearances before United stepped in with a £1.5 million offer in January. The deal was accepted, and the teenager signed a four-and-a-half-year contract at Old Trafford.

Heaven’s breakthrough season at United

Upon arrival, Heaven quickly impressed in training and was handed his debut in a 1–1 draw against Arsenal in March. He went on to feature in five more matches before picking up a minor injury, later returning to play in United’s final two fixtures of the season.

The switch seems to have paid off for the 19-year-old, who already looks more integrated at United than he ever did in North London. Still, questions remain as to why he left a club where success and structure are firmly in place for one still rebuilding.

Speaking to MUTV, Heaven explained that the decision was motivated by a desire for first-team football and a tactical fit that aligned better with his strengths.

(Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

A clearer path away from Arsenal?

“The opportunities that young players have got here in the past,” he said, when asked why he chose United. “I think United had the most minutes given to teenagers last season. That convinced me to come here. And the people and the fans here are quite loving, and I felt that when I was playing. They’re so supportive.”

Heaven also revealed that United manager Ruben Amorim played a key role in convincing him to make the switch. “He just said that our play style will suit me, because they play three at the back and I play on the left of the three, so that allows me to run with the ball. That’s one of my strengths. And defending out wide is one of my strengths as well.”

Many Arsenal fans were left questioning the club’s decision to let him go, but Heaven’s comments offer clarity. Breaking into Mikel Arteta’s team requires a truly exceptional level of readiness. With names like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri setting the standard, only the elite are likely to break through.

Heaven clearly felt his development would be better served elsewhere, and time will tell whether that decision proves to be the right one.

Arsenal make plans to stop losing youngsters after Man United snap up pair.

What are your thoughts? Is there no clear path for Hale End graduates at Arsenal?

Daniel O

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

ADMIN COMMENT

So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….

You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.

CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, please contact us through this link…