Man Utd's already have 'world class striker' believes Amorim with stunning goal record

Manchester United’s search for a proven striker continues to face setbacks, prompting manager Ruben Amorim to look inside his own squad for attacking solutions.

The man at the heart of this unexpected strategy? Chido Obi, the electrifying 17-year-old Danish-Nigerian forward who made the switch from Arsenal last year and is now set for a breakout 2025/26 campaign at Old Trafford.

Obi, who shattered Arsenal’s under-18 goalscoring record with 27 strikes in a single season—surpassing Folarin Balogun’s previous benchmark—quickly caught the eye at United’s academy.

Despite his youth, he has been integrated into Amorim’s first-team plans after a post-season Asian tour where he found the net multiple times, showing glimpses of what the manager sees as “world class ability”.

United’s recent confirmation that Obi has been assigned the No.32 shirt for the upcoming season underlines the club’s faith in his potential and signals intent for him to be a regular fixture in matchday squads, with only occasional appearances for the under-21s.

With United struggling to offload underperforming strikers Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, and also finding it difficult to attract established center-forwards, Amorim is ready to give youth a chance.

Reports stress that United must sell before buying, but with the market slow, the club could lean on internal development rather than splash more cash.

Obi is expected to compete for game time from the bench and in domestic cups, providing a fresh, fearless option in attack—something United fans have clamored for.

Obi’s pre-season performances have drawn praise from coaches, who have noticed a major change in his maturity and physical development, making him a prime candidate for the first team. 

His impressive displays in United’s recent tour—including a couple of eye-catching goals—have only added to the growing hype around the teenager.

While he had limited impact in a few first-team cameos late last season, the expectation now is for him to become a regular in Amorim’s matchday squads, with the potential to become a pivotal figure as the campaign progresses.

The backing for Obi extends beyond the coaching staff, reported The Mirror.

Fellow young prospect Leny Yoro, speaking to United staff, confidently predicted Obi could become “one of the world’s best strikers” if he maintains his development trajectory. 

His potential is seen as emblematic of the new transfer strategy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS—prioritizing future stars alongside immediate first-team needs.

Obi is expected to feature in United’s upcoming pre-season friendly against Leeds, offering fans a glimpse of what could be a defining story of the 2025/26 season.

While the club continues to monitor the market for a proven number nine, the rise of Chido Obi is a reminder that sometimes, the answer lies within.

United’s faith in Obi is a bold move at a time of transition, but if he seizes the opportunity, he could become both a fan favorite and a symbol of a new era at Old Trafford.