Chido Obi-Martin, one of Manchester United's most promising young talents, will not be participating in the highly anticipated Europa League semi-final first-leg match against Athletic Bilbao. Despite traveling with the Red Devils' 26-man squad to Spain, the 18-year-old forward will only be a spectator for the clash.
Obi-Martin, who made the switch from Arsenal's academy to Manchester United last summer, has impressed in the club's youth ranks. However, due to the regulations of the Europa League knockout stages, the teenager has been excluded from the official squad list for this phase of the competition. As a result, he is ineligible to play in the match. Additionally, since he joined the club only last year, Obi-Martin does not qualify for the B list, typically reserved for youth players.
Despite this setback, Obi-Martin’s inclusion in the traveling squad is not without purpose. Manchester United have confirmed that the youngster will participate in a training session following the match on Friday, which is why he has made the trip.
Ruben Amorim's squad choices: a gradual path for Obi-Martin
United's manager, Ruben Amorim, has shed light on his decision not to include Obi-Martin in the squad for the knockout rounds. Amorim explained that the move is part of a broader plan to gradually integrate the player into the senior team, where competition for the striker role is fierce. The Portuguese tactician emphasized the importance of balancing expectations for young players like Obi-Martin while carefully managing their development.
It's a different context, said Amorim. At the moment, Ras (Hojlund) and Josh (Zirkzee) are playing in the same position, and we are trying to manage everything, including the expectations of the kids. We have chosen different players.
He further added, It’s a big step for them, and I’m trying to think about every aspect. I’m not concerned about how this decision looks in the media or among their friends.
Obi-Martin’s stellar form in the youth ranks
Despite not featuring in the senior squad, Obi-Martin has been in outstanding form for United’s youth teams. The teenager has scored 14 goals in just 15 appearances for both the under-18s and under-21s, catching the attention of club officials.
His strong performances at youth level earned him a call-up to the first team, where he has made six appearances this season, including five in the Premier League.
Manchester United's squad boosted by returns of De Ligt and Amad
In other news, Manchester United’s squad for the Europa League clash with Bilbao will be strengthened by the return of Matthijs de Ligt and Amad, both of whom have recently recovered from injuries. After facing Bilbao, United will face a busy schedule, including a Premier League match against Brentford before the crucial second-leg showdown at Old Trafford.