Manchester United’s attacking struggles under Rúben Amorim have become a persistent concern, with the team’s lack of consistent firepower frustrating fans and analysts alike. Despite occasional glimpses of promise, the Red Devils have been unable to maintain a reliable attacking rhythm. Their forwards have struggled to deliver, prompting questions about whether a solution might be found within the club’s academy.
The team’s goal-scoring record this season has been underwhelming. In 20 league matches, United have managed only 30 goals—far below expectations for a side with Champions League ambitions. The responsibility has largely fallen on Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund, but both have been far from prolific. Højlund has endured a dismal run, failing to score in his last 14 appearances, while Zirkzee’s recent goal against Leicester City was his first in 12 outings. This lack of cutting edge has intensified calls for a rethink in United’s attacking setup.
During the January transfer window, many expected United to secure a proven striker to address these concerns. However, the club prioritized other positions, bringing in Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven while allowing Marcus Rashford and Antony to leave on loan. The decision not to bolster the forward line has left the squad short of options, increasing the pressure on Amorim to find internal alternatives.
Amid these difficulties, one name has emerged as a potential solution: Chido Obi. The 17-year-old forward has been in exceptional form for United’s U18 team, recently grabbing headlines with a hat-trick in a 5-1 win over Chelsea. His performances have sparked growing calls for a promotion to the senior squad, as fans look for a fresh injection of attacking prowess.
United’s U18 coach, Adam Lawrence, has been vocal in his praise of Obi’s recent displays. Speaking after the Chelsea match, Lawrence commended the young striker’s instinctive goal-scoring ability and his overall contribution to the team’s play. He highlighted Obi’s intelligent movement, his willingness to get into dangerous positions, and his capacity to involve teammates by holding up the ball when necessary. According to Lawrence, Obi’s all-around performance against Chelsea was just as impressive as his three goals.
Obi’s qualities—sharp off-the-ball movement, composure in front of goal, and a knack for being in the right place at the right time—mirror precisely what the senior side has been missing. His rise has inevitably fueled speculation about his potential inclusion in the first team, especially as United’s current forwards continue to falter.
Despite the excitement surrounding the young striker, Amorim has remained cautious. The Portuguese manager has consistently emphasized that Obi is still in the developmental phase of his career and needs more time before being thrust into the high-intensity environment of Premier League football. However, Amorim has also been closely monitoring Obi’s progress, regularly attending youth matches and training sessions to keep tabs on the promising talent.
With United’s attacking woes showing no signs of improvement, the calls for Obi’s inclusion are becoming harder to ignore. The lack of a reliable goal-scorer has left Amorim in a difficult position, and the teenager’s prolific form at youth level presents a tempting option. History shows that United have often turned to their academy talents during difficult periods. Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood both made their breakthroughs when the first team faced injury crises, and Obi could be the next in line to seize a similar opportunity.
Integrating a young player into the senior squad is never a straightforward decision, especially when the team is struggling. However, Obi’s recent performances suggest that he possesses the maturity and skill set needed to make the step up. If United can provide him with the right environment and support, he might just become a key figure in solving the club’s attacking issues.
The coming weeks could be pivotal. With United still competing on multiple fronts, including the FA Cup and European competitions, squad rotation is inevitable. Obi’s name is likely to feature prominently in discussions about potential changes to the attacking lineup. If the senior side’s goal drought continues, Amorim may have little choice but to give the 17-year-old a chance.
For now, Obi remains focused on his development, but the momentum around his potential first-team involvement is building. The young striker’s performances have been impossible to ignore, and his rapid progression suggests that his senior debut might not be far away. Should Amorim decide to take the plunge, Obi could provide the spark United so desperately need. The door to the first team may not be fully open yet, but with each passing game, Chido Obi is knocking louder. Sooner or later, someone at Old Trafford will have to answer.
