Manchester United academy striker Chido Obi has had a season of development behind the scenes, playing for the academy and failing to take the next step.
This time last year, Chido Obi was making regular appearances for the first team, looking the part in Ruben Amorim’s misfiring attack.
But Amorim admitted playing Obi too soon, and this season has been completely different as he moved back into the academy.
Obi has been impressive in the academy, but United not giving him first team opportunities have resulted in a clear battering to his reputation.
Would you give Chido Obi another chance in the first-team?
He's improved a lot for Manchester United…
Chido Obi playing against Fulham U21
Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images
Chido Obi scores for Manchester United U18
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Chido Obi’s NXGN status is an indication of Manchester United failure
Last year amid his breakout, Obi ranked 50th in the NXGN rankings, which is the list of the best youngsters in world football.
However, his step backwards has meant that Obi hasn’t featured at all in the 50 man NXGN list this year.
Obi still qualifies, being born in November 2007, which is 10 months on from the cut off point. Yet due to not playing senior football, it would be difficult to argue for his inclusion.
More United News
As an 18-year-old, tipped to become top class at United, players should only see their reputation continue to soar, not regress due to a lack of opportunity.
It may work out for the best if United see him evolve into the striker they are convinced he can be. However, Obi is deserving of more opportunities.
Ultimately, he has fallen victim to United’s lack of games this season which means there aren’t opportunities to rotate or integrate youth, something that will change next season with Champions League football on the cards.
Obi remains the club’s most exciting number nine talent, but if there are no plans to play him next season, he needs senior exposure and so a loan switch should be made.
This season might end up being a success with Obi in the running for academy trophies. But in the next 12 months, United need to ensure that his development is handled better, as he should be playing first-team football somewhere.
WHO is Manchester United’s best ever academy graduate?🔥
Manchester United celebrate winning league.
Photo by John Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images
JJ Gabriel the only Manchester United player included in NXGN ranking
With no Obi, JJ Gabriel was United’s only talent on the 2026 NXGN list, which is a ranking that paints the 15-year-old in an impressive light.
This is because most of the list is youngsters already playing senior football at a high level, and so while only playing U18 football, Gabriel’s inclusion is high praise.
However, United as a club which prides itself on a strong academy, should have other entrants which would involve giving players chances in the first-team more often.
Shea Lacey is the obvious one, and if he didn’t get sent off and then injured, chances are he may have played his way into this list.
Lacey’s been brilliant in every cameo he has got for United at a senior level, and we assume there is more to come.
Meanwhile there are several other talents knocking on the door, who will all hope to benefit from more games next season, which could see academy integration back at United.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox