Harry Maguire, the experienced Manchester United defender, expressed his approval of three young players' quality during the club's preseason friendlies. "The young players, every single one of them, are very fit. During running tests on the first day, they surprised everyone. They are in excellent condition. Credit to them," Maguire said.
Maguire highlighted Ayden Heaven, Shea Lacey and Dan Armer as examples of how young United players deserve the trust of the senior squad. Heaven, a 19-year-old central defender signed from Arsenal's academy in February 2025, has made 21 league appearances since the 2024/25 season and was named Premier League Player of the Month in December 2025. During four preseason matches in 2026/27, Heaven started all games under manager Michael Carrick, featuring in victories over Rosenborg (5-0) and Atletico Madrid (2-1), a draw with Paris Saint-Germain (1-1) and a defeat to Wrexham (0-1). "His performance in preseason has been outstanding," Maguire said.
Lacey, a 19-year-old winger who made his senior debut in December 2025, scored once in preseason when United beat Rosenborg 5-0. Maguire also singled out Dan Armer, an 18-year-old central defender whose style has been compared to Maguire's own. Armer, described as a modern defender who assists attacks and delivers accurate passes forward, appeared in all of United's preseason matches but has not yet played for the senior team in an official competition. "Dan is brilliant, a very good centre-back. I hope he continues to develop and enjoy his work," Maguire said.
United begin their Premier League campaign on Saturday, August 22, away at Hull City.
