Next breakout star: Man Utd 'happy' with 18yo wonderkid, could be promoted next season

Manchester United may already have their next breakout star quietly developing within their ranks.

We are talking about Chido Obi, an 18-year-old striker who is widely tipped as one of the most exciting centre-forward prospects of his generation.

Obi moved to United from Arsenal after turning down the chance to sign his first professional contract with the Gunners in the summer of 2024.

According to the Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils are happy with Obi’s development in the academy this season.

He has found the net nine times, with the majority of his goals coming for the United under-21s side.

The Denmark youth international spent time in the famed United academy before getting his senior breakthrough under former head coach Ruben Amorim in 2025.

Obi made eight appearances for the senior United side and was also part of their post-season tour.

Many expected him to secure a permanent first-team promotion this campaign, but the lack of European fixtures limited opportunities and resulted in a return to the Under-21s.

Being a generational talent, Obi has always been in the spotlight.

He hit the headlines when he scored 10 goals on his own in an incredible 14-3 win over Liverpool’s U16s in November 2023.

An old-school number nine, Obi combines physical presence with ruthless efficiency in front of goal.

However, the club are keen for the teenager to evolve beyond pure goalscoring and contribute more holistically to the team’s overall play.

That development phase could prove crucial in shaping him into a complete modern striker.

If he maintains his current trajectory, United may well fast-track him back into the senior squad next season, especially if they secure European football.

Stats from FotMob.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .