Chido Obi-Martin scored a stunning hat-trick in just 14 minutes as Manchester United’s Under-18s made an electric start to their first full appearance, against Nottingham Forest at Carrington.
Fresh from a promising cameo against Sunderland, the 16-year-old striker joined United from Arsenal in September and wasted no time showing his potential.
His first of three goals came within 13 seconds, after seizing an underhit back pass, rounding goalkeeper Keehan Willows, and slotting into an open net.
Chido Obi-Martin bagged a hat-trick inside the first 15 minutes of his United debut! 🤌✨#MUFC || #MUAcademy
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 26, 2024
Former Coaches and Arsenal Alumni Praise
Fans and football veterans are already paying attention to Obi-Martin’s talent. Jack Wilshere, who worked with Obi-Martin at Arsenal, praised the young forward’s drive after a memorable four-goal performance against Crystal Palace.
“The team, I’m proud of the team because for a striker to score four, he needs his teammates,” Wilshere added. ‘It is one thing to do it four times as an under-16 in under-18 football; it takes some real personality.’ His link-up play, pressing, and energy set the tempo for us.”
Obi-Martin is making good progress, said Wilshere, but there is room for growth.
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Coach of Denmark Highlights Obi-Martin’s Versatility
Jesper Mikkelsen, Denmark U17 manager, also spoke about what makes Obi-Martin special.
“He is really dominant because of his physique, but it’s not just that,” Mikkelsen said. “He is big and strong, with agility, able to keep his position and also challenge opponents with dribbling skills.”
Obi-Martin’s future at Manchester United looks bright, continuing to develop on the pitch with his physical strength, technical skill, and high work rate.
The young star can only get more exciting at Old Trafford as he settles into life at the club.