Manchester United’s latest signing, Ayden Heaven, has already sparked debate. The 18-year-old defender joined from Arsenal in January, but not everyone is convinced he made the right decision.
Former United goalkeeper Ben Foster has questioned his motives, suggesting the young player may not have the right mindset.
United fans were excited when Heaven arrived at Old Trafford. The teenager is highly rated, and with Lisandro Martinez sidelined, he could get his first-team chance sooner than expected.
However, Foster believes leaving Arsenal at this stage raises concerns about his character.
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Why did Heaven leave Arsenal?
Speaking on his “Fozcast” podcast, Foster expressed doubts about Heaven’s decision. “It does raise a lot of eyebrows and questions about what kind of character is happy to leave Arsenal when there’s possibly a pathway for him to be part of a very successful first team,” he said.
Foster pointed out that United are struggling with inconsistency and a lack of direction. “To then go and join Man United, which from the outside is toxic, chaotic, and you don’t really know what the playing style is, that would straightaway make me question why he’s done that,” he added.
Reports suggest Heaven received a big pay raise with the move. Foster believes this could hurt his motivation. “When most players get that big contract, they soften and they lose that hunger,” he warned.
“They’ve been on rubbish money for three years, and then all of a sudden they get that big contract. The handbrake is straight up.”
Heaven has signed a contract with United until June 2029, with an option for another year. The club insists his decision was based on football, not finances.
Technical director Jason Wilcox said, “We are delighted that Ayden has joined Manchester United. He is already an extremely talented defender who is ready to join our first-team squad.”
Heaven will also reunite with Chido Obi-Martin, another former Arsenal talent who joined United last summer. Obi-Martin has impressed in the youth ranks, and United will hope Heaven follows the same path.
