Manchester United defender Ayden Heaven will not switch international allegiance from England to Ghana for next summer’s World Cup.
The 19-year-old, who was born in London, is eligible to represent Ghana through a grandparent and has been on the Ghana Football Association’s radar. However, the defender is understood to have made his intentions clear about representing England at senior level.
Ghana have been drawn in the same World Cup group as England, alongside Croatia and Panama, for the tournament to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
International decision
Sources told BBC Sport that Heaven wants to continue with England, having already represented the country at multiple age-group levels. His pathway with England remains a priority despite interest from Ghana.
Injury setback and recovery
Heaven suffered an ankle injury while playing for England Under-20s against Switzerland in October and was substituted at half-time. He missed the following match against Japan in November but has since returned to full fitness.
Growing role at Manchester United
After joining Manchester United from Arsenal in February, Heaven initially made substitute appearances in the Premier League before earning his first start against West Ham on 4 December in a back three. Although substituted at half-time in that match, his performances have steadily improved.
Heaven impressed in the 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa on 21 December and was named man of the match in the 1-0 win over Newcastle, as United kept only their second clean sheet of the season.
Manager’s assessment
Speaking to BBC Sport, manager Ruben Amorim praised the young defender’s development, highlighting his growing composure and consistency.
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