Manchester United reportedly have no plans to send promising talent Chido Obi-Martin on loan this summer.
The 17-year-old turned down a professional contract with Arsenal to sign for Manchester United, where the transfer was completed in September 2024.
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Obi gained first-team experience last season with eight games at senior level, seven of them in the Premier League, and has been involved in the club’s preparations for the new season.
The costly signing of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig has led to speculation that Obi could be sent out on loan to get regular game time.
However, according to the Daily Mail, the club currently have no intention of loaning out Obi, who has scored 12 goals in 10 appearances for United’s U18 team since his arrival.
Hojlund’s departure opens the door for Obi
The report claims that Rasmus Hojlund’s expected departure means that Obi will get significant game time in the new season, with further development at Old Trafford.
Sesko, who has been given shirt number 30, will be the first goalkeeper at the top, with Joshua Zirkzee as a reserve – although the Dutchman can also be used as number 10.
With a reduced number of games next season due to absences in Europe, United will place more emphasis on the League Cup and FA Cup – tournaments that can give Obi and other bench players important playing time.
The expectation is that Obi will be in the squad for Sunday’s Premier League opener against Arsenal, where Sesko is likely to start on the bench after his recent arrival.
What awaits Arsenal talent Obi?
Obi had a brilliant 2023/24 season for Arsenal’s U18 team with 32 goals in 18 games, including 28 goals in the last nine games.
The Danish U21 international is known for scoring 10 goals in a game against Liverpool’s U16 team, and took part in Arsenal’s first-team training before the transfer.
Although Obi is yet to break through at the senior level, he has already grown from U18 football. With a season at United now under his belt, he is expected to take a step forward in the new season.
The striker is considered one of the world’s most promising young talents, and all signs point to him developing into a superstar for United in the years to come.
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