Eye-popping stat shows United’s £1m signing is one of the best players in his position in PL

Manchester United star Ayden Heaven is among the elite one per cent of Premier League defenders for a key statistic. Heaven taking his chances Heaven has been in form for United since coming into the team a few weeks ago. In the absence of experienced duo Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire due to injuries, Heaven has filled in admirably. The teenager endured a tough start to the season as he found playing time extremely hard to come by. However, he has started in all of United’s last six outings. Whether paired with Leny Yoro or Lisandro Martínez, Heaven has not only held his own but has often outshone his defensive partners. Heaven’s most impressive display came in the narrow 1-0 win over Newcastle. The Englishman delivered a strong individual performance in United’s 1-1 draw against Wolves, highlighted by his pressing to win possession and instigate the attack for Joshua Zirkzee’s opener. Heaven was named United’s Player of the Month for December. Ruben Amorim is on the record saying that on current pace, the player is almost undroppable – a clear message to Maguire and De Ligt, who are facing a fight to get back into the XI once they’re fully fit. As Heaven’s rise continues, a new stat has come up, revealing just how exceptional one aspect of his game is. Heaven stat Martinez has often been hailed as the best ball-playing central defender in United’s ranks but it seems Heaven is right up there with the World Cup winner. Statman Dave points out that Heaven has completed 82.4% of the long passes he has made in his eight top-flight appearances. This puts him in the top one per cent of centre-backs in the league. Ayden Heaven has completed 82.4% of his long passes in the Premier League this season, putting him in the top 1% of CBs in the league. Elite distortion. 🎯 pic.twitter.com/GhJvvsFSN3 — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) January 2, 2026 It’s yet more proof of Heaven’s enormous potential and his status as a steal. United pulled off a coup by signing him from Arsenal for only £1.5m a year ago. United are next in action on Sunday when they face Leeds at Elland Road. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!