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Chido Obi-Martin is finally a Manchester United player.
The 16 year old decided to leave Arsenal at the end of last season and agreed terms with United, but his move has been delayed due to the need for a compensation figure to be settled with the Gunners.
Last week the news broke that a figure had been agreed upon, enabling the Premier League to ratify the move.
And the youngster broke the news on social media this evening that he has finally joined the Red Devils.
“A dream come true, So happy and proud to join the club of my dream;” he posted on X.
“Nobody can understand how excited I am right now and can’t wait to see you. United for life!”
The news was confirmed on United’s web site by academy manager Nick Cox.
“We welcome Samuel Lusale, Chido Obi-Martin and James Overy to the club,” Cox said.
“All three young players will join up with our Professional Development Phase as they adjust to life in Manchester and become acquainted with their new team-mates.
“It can be a difficult process for some players, while others slot right in. Whatever the scenario, our staff will be on hand to care for these young boys and make sure their experience at the Academy is an overwhelmingly positive one that sets them up for life.
“Good to luck to Samuel, Chido and James, well done to our recruitment team and congratulations to the families and wider support networks involved in these boys’ journeys. Signing for Manchester United should be a proud day for everyone involved.”
All three signings are seen as a massive coup for the Red Devils, but perhaps Chido Obi in particular, with the 16 year old arguably the most exciting prospect in English football in his age group for many years.
It remains to be seen at what level he will start life at United.
The obvious landing spot is the Under 18’s, but with Gabriele Biancheri ripping it up at that level, Chido Obi may be fast tracked to the Under 21s.
In fact, there was a report from Fabrizio Romano around the time the news broke he had agreed terms that United had told him he would be their third striker behind Rasmus Hojlund and Josh Zirkzee.
If so, he could train with the first team and perhaps even make the bench for a cup game, especially if either of the main strikers pick up an injury.
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