On May 4, 2025, Chido Obi-Martin made history by becoming Manchester United’s youngest-ever Premier League starter at just 17 years and 156 days old. The Nigerian-Danish forward was handed his debut by manager Ruben Amorim in United’s thrilling 4-3 away loss to Brentford. Despite the defeat, Obi-Martin’s performance stood out as a symbol of United’s commitment to youth development.
Born in Denmark to Nigerian parents, Obi-Martin began his football journey at KB Copenhagen before moving to Arsenal’s academy in 2022. He later joined Manchester United in October 2024 after turning down a professional contract with the Gunners. His impact was immediate he scored a rapid hat-trick in 14 minutes during his U18 debut against Nottingham Forest.
Since then, Obi-Martin has been a revelation, netting 12 goals in 10 Under 18 Premier League matches and smashing the league’s single-season scoring record with 37 goals in just 23 appearances. His physicality, sharp technical skills, and lethal finishing have drawn comparisons to Manchester United legends.
Manager Ruben Amorim praised his maturity and instinctive play, while also stressing the need for patience in his development. Obi-Martin previously made his senior debut as a substitute against Tottenham Hotspur, but his starting role against Brentford marked a significant leap forward for the club’s latest teenage prodigy.
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Editorial
Chido Obi-Martin’s historic debut for Manchester United is more than just a record it’s a signal that youth development is alive and thriving at Old Trafford. His rise from Arsenal’s academy to Manchester United’s starting XI is proof of his talent, resilience, and a fearless attitude that sets him apart.
United’s willingness to throw a 17 year old into the cauldron of Premier League action is a statement of intent. In a world where instant success is often demanded, the club’s faith in youth is refreshing. For Obi-Martin, the hard work starts now. He has the talent, but turning potential into permanence will require discipline, focus, and the right guidance.
For Nigerian football, Obi-Martin is a beacon of what is possible. His journey is a testament to the strength of the diaspora in pushing Nigerian talent onto the biggest stages. The future is bright not just for him, but for Nigerian football as a whole.
Did You Know?
- Chido Obi-Martin’s hat trick on his U18 debut for Manchester United came in just 14 minutes one of the fastest recorded in the league’s history.
- Before joining Arsenal, Obi-Martin was the top scorer for KB Copenhagen’s U16 side, where he netted 28 goals in a single season.
- His Premier League debut at 17 years and 156 days makes him younger than club legends like Wayne Rooney and Marcus Rashford during their first starts.
- Obi-Martin is eligible to represent both Nigeria and Denmark at the senior international level, though he is yet to make his decision.
- Manchester United’s academy has produced more Premier League starters under the age of 18 than any other English club since the league’s inception in 1992.
