Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has expressed satisfaction with the performances of young talents Chido Obi and Ayden Heaven during their FA Cup match against Fulham, despite the team’s exit from the competition.
Obi, of Nigerian descent, and Heaven, both former Arsenal youth players, were introduced as substitutes in the match, which concluded with a 1-1 draw and a 4-3 loss in the penalty shootout.
Amorim highlighted the importance of integrating youth players, especially when the squad faces injuries.
He noted that such moments provide opportunities for young talents to step up, aligning with the club’s tradition of promoting from within.
“They are players with talent and then, when you have this moment with some injuries, they have to be ready,” Amorim said. “It’s our tradition to put players in to play, especially in this moment.
“We have to focus on everything, the future is right there and the young kids can feel the club and can change things sometimes for us, without buying players.
“And I think Chido did really well today. Of course, he was a little bit naïve in some moments, but you felt that, inside the box, he wants the ball – something the strikers have and he has.
“Ayden was really relaxed during the game so I’m quite happy for them but it’s a tough first (home) game for them.”
Chido Obi, a 17-year-old striker, joined Manchester United from Arsenal in October 2024. Born in Glostrup, Denmark, to a Danish mother and Nigerian father, Obi moved to the UK at a young age.
His football journey began with FC Copenhagen before transitioning to Arsenal during the COVID-19 era.
At Arsenal, he showcased his goal-scoring prowess, notably netting 32 goals in 18 league matches, including a remarkable seven-goal performance against Norwich City.
Since his move to Manchester United, Obi has continued to impress. He made a sensational debut for the U18s, scoring a hat-trick within 14 minutes against Nottingham Forest.
