3 clearances, 100% tackles won – Rúben Amorim has new Manchester United starter after “great” display vs Arsenal

Rúben Amorim has a new starter at Manchester United after a “great” Premier League performance from one player against Arsenal at Old Trafford.

Manchester United and Arsenal shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon, as Bruno Fernandes’ first-half free-kick was cancelled out by Declan Rice’s long-range strike in the Premier League clash.

The match began cautiously, with Arsenal dominating possession in the opening 20 minutes but struggling to carve out clear-cut chances. Despite the visitors’ early control, it was United who took the lead just before half-time, as Fernandes curled a brilliant free-kick past David Raya.

United were forced into a change at the break, with Leny Yoro making way for Ayden Heaven due to injury. The first major opportunity of the second half fell to Noussair Mazraoui, whose close-range effort was spectacularly denied by Raya.

Joshua Zirkzee then went close moments later, only to be thwarted by the Arsenal goalkeeper once again. However, it was Rice who struck next, sending a powerful shot beyond André Onana to bring Arsenal level. Rúben Amorim responded by introducing Rasmus Højlund and Toby Collyer for the final 15 minutes.

United thought they had snatched a late winner deep into stoppage time when Fernandes found himself with a golden chance, but Raya produced a stunning double save to keep the scores level and ensure both sides took a point from the contest.

Amorim has a new starter

United’s defence has been very shaky in the last few months – the side have only kept two clean sheets across 2025 so far.

When the line-ups were announced against Arsenal, many were worried to see that Victor Lindelöf was starting as the middle entre-back, many were worried.

However, the Swedish international had a pretty decent display, but another defender who surprised many was Heaven, who made his Premier League debut in the second half after signing in January.

Heaven only had 18 touches but played well, defending against an electric Gabriel Martinelli, while he also looked comfortable on the ball, playing a “great” game.

Ayden Heaven has been great since he came on.

Good on the ball, uses his body well, and made a couple of much-needed clearances. Should be in contention to start vs Sociedad if Maguire isn’t fit.

— Dylan (@Dylyano) March 9, 2025

He made three clearances during his second half, including two with his head, making one interception, not being dribbled past once, and winning his only attempted tackle.

Amid Harry Maguire being out injured and news yet to filter through about Yoro’s fitness after his substitution against Arsenal, Heaven has thrown himself into contention to start.

Heaven’s performance did not go unnoticed

Heaven’s display was spotted by many United fans and praised, and this was also noticed by the pundits after the whistle, too.

Read More: Manchester United’s five things noticed vs Arsenal, Bruno Fernandes shines despite worrying trend (Premier League)

Former Premier League midfielder Jamie Redknapp spoke to Sky Sports after, singling out Heaven for doing well after coming on in a very rushed situation.

“He did have good game, Ayden Heaven coming as well, in fairness,” Redknapp said. “It wasn’t easy when you come in on a situation like that.”

Amorim was keen to echo these thoughts. He told the BBC: “I think he did really well. He is really comfortable with the ball. So relaxed, very aggressive and I think we have a very good player there.”

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