Chido Obi makes Premier League history with first Manchester United start

Chido Obi becomes youngest Premier League starter for Manchester United

Ruben Amorim fields youthful lineup in Brentford clash ahead of European tie

Manchester United handed a landmark Premier League start to 17-year-old Chido Obi on Sunday, as head coach Ruben Amorim rotated his squad heavily for the trip to Brentford.

Obi, a highly regarded forward who arrived from Arsenal last summer, was named in the starting XI for the first time and made club history as United’s youngest-ever Premier League starter. His inclusion reflects Amorim’s long-term approach as he preserves key players for Thursday’s Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Bilbao.

Rising through the ranks

Chido Obi made his senior debut earlier this year, appearing briefly in a 1–0 defeat to Tottenham. Since then, he has accumulated seven senior appearances across all competitions, including cameos in Premier League matches against Everton, Leicester City, Wolverhampton, and Bournemouth. In the FA Cup, he featured for 52 minutes against Fulham.

Obi’s development has been rapid. At academy level, he has scored 12 goals in 10 matches for United’s U-18 side and added two more in four games with the U-21s since his promotion.

Amorim: "No pressure on Chido"

Speaking ahead of the Brentford match, Amorim emphasized the importance of fostering young talent without overwhelming them.

“We need to focus a lot on our young players,” the manager said. “For me, it is not a massive game for Chido. I know it's important for him, but I don't want a lot of pressure on Chido.”

Amorim added that Obi had shown maturity in previous appearances, particularly against Wolverhampton, and is “ready to cope with the demands of the Premier League.”

In Sunday’s matchday squad, Obi was joined by other young talents, including Tyler Fredricson and Harry Amass, with Alejandro Garnacho and Mason Mount providing support in the attack. Rasmus Hojlund, United’s primary striker, was rested ahead of the European fixture.

Staying grounded amid growing hype

Despite the rapid ascent, Obi remains focused on growth and humility. Speaking to Manchester United’s internal media, the teenager shared the advice he’s received from both family and coaching staff.

“He’s just told me to be humble and keep working hard every day,” Obi said of Amorim’s guidance. “And hopefully, I get more opportunities soon.”

Obi also credited his parents for keeping him grounded and highlighted the difference in tempo between academy and senior football.

“I've learnt to be smart and to think quicker by training with the first team because the game is quicker compared to Academy football. It helps me a lot, training with them every day.”

As Manchester United balances a demanding European schedule with long-term squad development, the emergence of players like Chido Obi signals a promising future. His Premier League breakthrough not only marks a personal milestone but also reflects the club’s growing reliance on homegrown talent under Amorim’s leadership.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for more updates on Manchester United’s next generation of stars.