‘I think Obi-Martin will be a really good player for us’ – Kobbie Mainoo

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has lauded his 17-year-old teammate Chido Obi-Martin following the teenager’s full debut in the club’s 4–3 defeat to Brentford on Sunday.

Obi-Martin, who joined United from Arsenal in October 2024, became the club’s youngest-ever Premier League starter at 17 years and 156 days.

Mainoo, of Ghanaian descent, expressed his admiration for Obi-Martin’s performance and attitude.

The Danish-born forward, of Nigerian heritage, has been a standout in United’s academy, netting 12 goals in 10 matches for the Under-18s.

His rapid rise earned him a spot in the senior squad, and he has now made seven appearances for the first team.

Despite the team’s loss, Mainoo highlighted Obi-Martin’s potential and work ethic.

“I like him. I think he’s a good player,” Mainoo remarked. “As ‘Garna’ says, he seems eager to learn from older players, so I think he’ll be a really good player for us.”

Mainoo also noted Obi-Martin’s physical presence on the field, stating, “He’s a big guy for his age, and he’s good at using his body.”

Manager Ruben Amorim has been integrating youth players into the first team, with Obi-Martin’s inclusion reflecting the club’s commitment to developing young talent.

The match against Brentford, which featured a lineup with an average age of 22 years and 270 days—the third youngest in Premier League history—demonstrated the club’s focus on nurturing emerging players.