Chido Obi-Martin Shining in Manchester United’s Academy with Four Goals in Four Games
Manchester United’s academy may have found its next breakout star in Chido Obi-Martin, who has continued his remarkable start with four goals in his first four Under-18 games since joining from Arsenal this summer. The 16-year-old forward made a strong impression in his ‘home’ debut last month, scoring a swift 15-minute hat-trick in a dominant 6-0 win over Nottingham Forest. This past weekend, he continued his scoring streak by netting the opener in United’s 3-0 victory over Everton, showcasing a calm finish from a tough angle that underscores his skill and confidence.
A Prodigious Talent Transplanted from Arsenal
United’s acquisition of Obi-Martin from Arsenal in July was a coup. With 32 goals in 21 Under-18 appearances for the Gunners, his potential was clear. Yet, due to registration processes, Obi-Martin had to wait until late September to officially join United’s squad. Arsenal, keen to retain the prolific young forward, attempted to sign him on new terms, but Obi-Martin ultimately chose United for the next step in his development.
Obi-Martin’s goal-scoring prowess already has him on the radar for higher-level matches. He has appeared for United’s Under-19s three times and has twice stepped up to the Under-21s—a testament to his skill, adaptability, and maturity on the field. This rising star also made a strong debut for Norway’s Under-18 national team, scoring on his debut in September.
Rising with United’s Thriving Academy Squad
Obi-Martin’s early performances have set him apart, but he’s also part of a highly successful United Under-18 squad that is currently topping the Premier League North table with an impressive nine wins out of nine games. The team has scored a staggering 43 goals while conceding just four, a testament to both their firepower and defensive resilience. Obi-Martin’s contributions, along with goals from teammates Jim Thwaites and Bendito Mantato, have made this season a memorable one for United’s youth squad.
Manchester United’s academy currently brims with talent. On Saturday, Obi-Martin was substituted in the 71st minute for fellow prospect Gabriele Biancheri, while Tyler Fletcher, son of United legend Darren Fletcher, also started. Tyler’s twin brother Jack, a promising midfielder, has recently trained with the first team and appeared on the bench for senior matches, a trajectory that Obi-Martin could follow under the incoming head coach Ruben Amorim.
What Lies Ahead for Obi-Martin
At just 16, Obi-Martin is on the cusp of a significant career in professional football, and his early success at United suggests he may soon join the ranks of the club’s most promising young players. Given his early-season form and the confidence he’s gained, his transition from Arsenal to United’s academy looks like a wise move, positioning him well to be a future attacking asset for the club.
Obi-Martin turns 17 at the end of November, marking a pivotal time in his career as he moves closer to senior-level football. As he continues to deliver standout performances in the Under-18s, he’s setting himself up as one of the players to watch in United’s pipeline. With Ruben Amorim set to take over United’s first team, Obi-Martin may have an opportunity to further integrate with higher squads, following in the footsteps of other academy graduates who have transitioned to senior football.
In a season where United’s Under-18s are dominating their league, Obi-Martin’s flair, finishing ability, and keen footballing sense make him an exciting prospect. Fans are eager to see if he can carry this momentum into higher tiers of the academy—and, one day, onto the Premier League stage.
