
Chido Obi-Martin Questioning Arsenal Exit as First-Team Chances at Man Utd Remain Limited
Chido Obi-Martin may be having second thoughts about his decision to leave Arsenal for Manchester United, as his pathway to the first team remains unclear.
The highly-rated striker made the move last year after shining in Arsenal’s academy system, most notably scoring an astonishing 10 goals in a single U16s match in November 2023. His transfer to United generated excitement, but nearly six months later, he has yet to break into the senior squad.
Struggles for Game Time at United
Despite United’s ongoing attacking struggles under Rúben Amorim, Obi-Martin has been restricted to the youth setup, raising questions about his development. His lack of first-team involvement is particularly surprising given reports that he is earning a significant salary, potentially as high as £30,000 per week, according to The Athletic.
United fans will be hoping that the club is taking a measured approach to his progression rather than simply overlooking his potential. However, had he stayed at Arsenal, he might have already received senior opportunities—especially considering the Gunners’ recent injury concerns.
Watching His Peers Excel at Arsenal
At Arsenal, manager Mikel Arteta has shown a willingness to promote young talent, with Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri—both the same age as Obi-Martin—already making an impact in the Premier League and Champions League. Seeing his former academy teammates flourish while he remains in United’s youth ranks could leave Obi-Martin questioning his move away from North London.
Was the Move a Mistake?
Obi-Martin’s situation at United highlights a crucial dilemma for young players: choosing between a club with a proven pathway to the first team or one that offers an exciting project but uncertain opportunities. Given United’s attacking woes, his continued absence from the senior squad is puzzling.
At just 18 years old, he still has plenty of time to develop, but stagnation at this stage could stall his trajectory. If United does not offer him a clear route to first-team football soon, the decision to leave Arsenal may start to feel like a misstep—especially given his record-breaking academy performances before the switch.
Should Manchester United fast-track Obi-Martin into the first team, or does he need more time to develop in the youth setup?
Leave a Reply