Manchester United sealed a hugely important 1-0 win over Chelsea to bounce back to winning ways. Fans were full of praise for Ayden Heaven, who came into the starting lineup due to three massive absences.
The Reds’ winner came through Matheus Cunha, who buried a sensational Bruno Fernandes cross into the back of Robert Sanchez’s net in the 43rd minute. That was the visitors’ only attempt on goal in the first half, but they made the most of their opportunity.
Down the other end, Liam Rosenior’s side twice hit the bar, first from a Liam Delap header. The English striker then forced Mazraoui to head onto the bar minutes later.
United saw out a much-needed, hard-fought victory to get back on track. Carrick’s men put Monday’s shock 2-1 defeat to Leeds United behind them to move three points clear of Aston Villa in third.
Chelsea 0-1 Man United: A Heavenly Display
Heaven was handed a rare start with Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez sidelined and Leny Yoro injured. The young English centre-back partnered Noussair Mazraoui in an extremely unfamiliar pairing.
You wouldn’t have thought the 19-year-old was making his first start under Carrick. He was faultless throughout, keeping the hosts at bay with excellent tackling and dominance in the air.
Heaven won two of three tackles, made four clearances, blocked four shots, and won five of seven ground duels. He shut out the Blues’ attack and helped the Reds secure a league double over one of their longtime rivals.
Carrick was given an almighty headache when he headed into tonight’s game without his preferred defensive duo. But it’s fair to say that Heaven and Mazraoui put in a fantastic performance and it didn’t go unnoticed.
‘Brilliant’ – Fans Applaud Heaven
Both Heaven and Mazraoui came in for huge praise for fans following the win over Chelsea. The Moroccan right-back certainly stepped up after questionable displays this season.
Heaven though with so little game time this season played with so much maturity. They both were hailed by one fan on X:
“I think this United center-back pairing of Heaven and Mazraoui is exactly what was needed for today; given the quick, electric dribblers and a dominating midfield that Chelsea are bringing right now, having more mobile players who can get the ball into playable positions is necessary for success.“
One added:
“Heaven! What a player He might not get enough playing time but when he does play for Manchester United, Omo, he does so well He plays so well So good on the ball, aerial duel and also tackles I love that.”
‘Class’ was the verdict of one fan:
“Mazraoui has been class putting in his shift as a central defender and Ayden Heaven has also been class stepping up to the plate to make this make shift partnership for Manchester United against Chelsea.”
Another feels the former Arsenal youngster has more potential than £58m Yoro:
“I’m a massive fan of Ayden Heaven – I think the lad is class. Nothing against Yoro whatsoever but I think Heaven is a better prospect.”
One supporter was blown away:
“Ayden Heaven I’m standing and applauding this performance of yours broski.”
Another added:
“Ayden Heaven starting at CB at Stamford Bridge and pocketing Chelsea’s entire frontline… Is he already better than Leny Yoro? I’ve seen enough. United’s academy is clear of Cobham.”
Heaven’s performance might not only have helped United secure Champions League football. But it could convince Carrick that he deserves more first-team opportunities in the final stretch of the season.
