Manchester United have promised Chido Obi-Martin that he will be the club’s third-choice striker, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano revealed that the Red Devils managed to secure the teenager’s signature by guaranteeing that he will be part of Erik ten Hag’s plans.
The fact that Obi-Martin is only behind Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee in the pecking order, despite having not made his senior debut, suggests United have tremendous faith in the forward. Fans on X are hoping that he can live up to the hype:
Going straight to the top
— Evelyn (@EvelynGr8th) July 31, 2024
Wow, this is huge
— Mal (@iamBinHuzairu) July 31, 2024
Cant wait to see this lad play!
— United Talk (@CraigMUFC1) July 31, 2024
He will shine I’m sure
— GARFIELD JP (@GarfieldUtd) July 31, 2024
Make alot of sense.Welcome young lad
— Okoye Oskar (@Oskarnwanne) July 31, 2024
Wow
He must be good
🥰
— Kattia Olsen 🇳🇴 (@kattia_olsen1) July 31, 2024
Why were United so desperate to recruit Obi-Martin?
The 16-year-old racked up goals for fun in Arsenal’s Under 18 team last season, scoring 32 times in just 21 appearances. Despite his young age, he was also given a run out for the Gunners’ Under 21s, coming on as a substitute in two Premier League 2 fixtures against Brighton and Middlesbrough.
Some observers have already likened Obi-Martin to Erling Haaland in terms of his finishing ability, but it would be unfair to draw such comparisons at this stage of his career.
Working under van Nistelrooy was also an influential factor
Romano has also confirmed that assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy talked to Obi-Martin prior to the youngster signing on the dotted line.
Working with the Dutchman, who was one of the best forwards in Europe during his playing days, likely influenced the player’s decision to make the switch to Old Trafford.