Heaven rejects Ghana switch, commits future to England
Manchester United defender Ayden Heaven has decided against switching international allegiance to Ghana, opting instead to pursue a senior England career ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
The 19-year-old, who is eligible to represent Ghana through a grandparent, has been tracked by the Ghana Football Association as part of its long-term recruitment strategy.
However, the London-born centre-back has made it clear he intends to remain in the England setup.
Sources indicate Heaven’s preference is firmly aligned with England, where he has already represented the country across multiple youth levels.
Ghana interest ends as England pathway prioritised
Ghana, who will compete at the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, have been drawn in the same group as England, Croatia and Panama.
Despite the potential opportunity, Heaven has chosen continuity over a change of allegiance.
His decision effectively closes the door on any short-term international switch, proving England’s grip on one of the more promising young defenders emerging in the Premier League.
United progress accelerates after Arsenal move
Heaven joined Manchester United from Arsenal in February after making a single senior appearance for the Gunners. Since then, his integration at Old Trafford has gathered pace.
After two substitute outings in the league, he earned a first start against West Ham on 4 December as part of a back three. While that appearance ended at half-time following an early booking, his trajectory has been upward.
He has since started four consecutive matches, showing steady improvement, excelling in the 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa and earning man-of-the-match honours in the 1-0 win over Newcastle, only United’s second clean sheet of the season.
Amorim endorsement underlines growing status
United manager Ruben Amorim has publicly backed the teenager, signalling growing trust in his development.
“I am really pleased with Ayden,” Amorim said. “You can feel that he is improving every game. He is young, but he understands the game well and gets better as it goes on.
“If he continues to play like that, it will be very hard to take his place.”
