Teen defender confident United can secure Champions League spot after Wolves win.

Ayden Heaven

Manchester United teenager Ayden Heaven believes a return to European football is within reach after the Red Devils’ 4-1 victory over Wolves at Molineux on Monday.

Bruno Fernandes’ double, along with goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Mason Mount, helped United recover from last week’s disappointing draw against West Ham. Wolves had briefly cancelled Fernandes’ opener through Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, marking their first Premier League goal since October 26.

Ending the 2024/25 season in 15th place, Manchester United missed out on European qualification, losing the Europa League final to Tottenham. But Heaven sees no limitation in the squad despite the lack of continental football this season.

“We dropped points in the last game and this was the chance to redeem ourselves… We knew it wasn’t good enough that we conceded. He (Amorim) just told us to do what we can do, and we did that,” Heaven said.
“Hopefully we can be in Europe next season, which I think we’ll do. Of course, that’s where Manchester United belong.”

Heaven has impressed with two successive starts, covering for injured centre-backs Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt, and has earned manager Ruben Amorim’s trust.

“He’s trusting me a lot. I feel like I’m working hard every day in training and showing he can trust me in the games I’m playing,” said Heaven.

Manchester United will look to continue their strong form when they host Bournemouth on Monday.