Manchester United is thinking about making a move this summer for Hayden Hackney, a promising young midfielder from Middlesbrough. He is highly regarded by Michael Carrick, a former Manchester United player.
Amorim Impressed by Man Utd Young Players
Manchester United played well and drew 1-1 with Arsenal at Old Trafford. This result makes it less likely Arsenal will win the title.
Bruno Fernandes scored a brilliant free-kick for United after halftime, but Declan Rice equalized for Arsenal. Arsenal could have scored more, but David Raya, United’s goalkeeper, made several good saves.
While Fernandes got a lot of praise, coach Ruben Amorim was also impressed with Ayden Heaven, a young defender. Heaven, who used to play for Arsenal, came on as a substitute in the second half and made his Premier League debut against his old team.
Amorim said Heaven played very well, noting his comfort and composure on the ball. He described Heaven as relaxed and aggressive, suggesting he could become a very good player.
Alan Shearer, a former Newcastle United star, also praised Heaven’s performance, saying he looked confident and made important tackles and blocks in the second half.
United Looking at Young Players Like Middlesbrough’s Hackney
Manchester United may sign more young talents, and Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough is on their list. Reports suggest United is interested in the 22-year-old midfielder if they can’t sign their main targets, such as Ederson, Adam Wharton, and Martin Zubimendi.
Adding a midfielder is a priority for Amorim, who wants to use Fernandes in a more attacking role. United sees Hackney as a good fit. Crystal Palace is currently showing the most interest, but United’s interest could quickly change things.
Hackney’s 2023/24 Championship Season |
||
---|---|---|
Stat (per 90) |
Hackney |
Rank vs CMs in similar leagues |
Passes |
80.66 |
98th percentile |
Progressive passes |
9.29 |
99th percentile |
Shot-creating actions |
4.03 |
87th percentile |
Shots |
1.29 |
61st percentile |
Blocks |
1.64 |
87th percentile |
Michael Carrick, the current Middlesbrough manager and former United midfielder, has spoken very highly of Hackney since 2022. Last year, Carrick called Hackney ‘exemplary,’ praising his attitude and talent.
Carrick said that Hackney is grounded, humble, eager to learn, and loves Middlesbrough. He believes this attitude combined with Hackney’s talent is ideal and shows his consistent high performance as a young player.