Ruben Amorim is being called to make a risky decision for Manchester United’s upcoming Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur.
Manchester United are heading towards a crucial night, with a Europa League victory offering a route back into the Champions League for the 2025/26 season.
Securing the trophy would also bring some much-needed positivity to a turbulent period in the club’s recent history, marking a third piece of silverware in as many years.
That said, their struggles in the Premier League remain a pressing issue—one that incoming manager Rúben Amorim will need to address urgently next season.
Their opponents, Tottenham Hotspur, find themselves in a similarly troubled spot. At present, Spurs are the only side below United in the league table not battling relegation.
Despite both enduring disappointing domestic campaigns, a Europa League triumph would provide a welcome high note to close out the season.
United fans calling for Amorim to start Heaven in final
It was confirmed on Thursday afternoon that Ayden Heaven was back in the United squad for the upcoming game against Chelsea.
The Reds face off against the Blues five days before their cup final and Heaven’s return is a boost for the squad, especially since there have been no major updates on whether Leny Yoro will be available or not.
Despite the time out injured and his minimal time on the pitch for the club, many United fans believe that Heaven should be starting the Europa League final if he is able to get minutes on the pitch against Chelsea.
“One good cameo against Chelsea and I’d seriously consider starting him in the final. Been faultless every time he plays,” one supporter wrote on social media.
Another said: “Give him about 20-25 mins against Chelsea, if Yoro isn’t available for the final i need him there.”
“If Ayden Heaven is fit enough to get some minutes against Chelsea, I will definitely start him alongside Maguire and Mazraoui,” a third added.
Starting Heaven in Europa League final is too risky
There’s no doubt that Heaven was very good in the games he played before injury but starting him in a European final after barely playing for several months does seem extremely risky.
For the left centre-back role, there’s probably not a better fit option available. His calmness in possession and left foot are extremely useful.
But we cannot underestimate the pressure of a final, especially for a player who is still only 18 years of age. He doesn’t look phased but this might be a step too far.
Having him back in the squad would be a significant boost, and perhaps he’d be able to make an impact off the bench if needed, but it feels unlikely that Amorim would take the risk to start him against Spurs.
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