Joshua Zirkzee sends message to Chido Obi after “really good” Manchester United hat-trick

Joshua Zirkzee has sent a message to Chido Obi after he scored a hat-trick for Manchester United in the FA Youth Cup.

Manchester United’s under-18s enjoyed a successful campaign last season, winning three trophies, but their FA Youth Cup ambitions were cut short by a shock defeat to Swindon Town.

This year, the young Reds are once again impressing and are determined to replicate their 2022 triumph in the prestigious competition.

Their fifth-round victory over Chelsea was a statement of intent—not only did Adam Lawrence’s side win, but they dominated one of the tournament favourites, knocking them out in emphatic fashion.

Despite falling behind early, United roared back to secure a commanding 5-1 victory. Chido Obi starred with a hat-trick, while James Scanlon added another two goals to seal the win.

Obi has been outstanding in the FA Youth Cup, netting seven goals in just three matches and quickly making a name for himself among the fanbase.

Adam Lawrence described the forward as a “natural goalscorer” after the game and claimed that he produced a “really good” display.

Zirkzee sends message to Obi

The 17-year-old took to Instagram after taking the match ball home, writing: “Proud of this team, next round. Hatty 🫶🏾”

First-team striker Joshua Zirkzee praised the teenager in the replies, commenting two fire emojis followed by three explanation points.

It has been claimed that Obi has taken part in a handful of first-team training sessions, usually while the regular players are not involved.

However, United still believe there is further development for the striker to do before he becomes a consistent presence in Amorim’s training squad.

Eventually, Obi will want to break into the first-team and provide a goalscoring option, something that the current options – Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund – are struggling with.

FA Youth Cup can be great development for Obi

Obi is a regular for the Under-21s at United now after starting in the Under-18s, but he will likely continue to drop down for FA Youth Cup games.

United take the competition very seriously and for good reason. It is the most prestigious youth trophy and the Reds have won it 11 times, more than any other club.

In 2022, the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo won the final against Nottingham Forest in front of an Old Trafford crowd of 69,000 – they played in front of more homes fans than any other English club that season.

Obi and his teammates have not been afforded that chance yet, with their home games being played at Leigh Sports Village so far, but could have the opportunity to play against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the next round.

Read More: Chido Obi sends exciting two-word message to Manchester United teammate, debut soon

The FA Youth Cup can become an important part of a player’s development and United chiefs will be hoping that Obi and his teammates can go on to lift the trophy for a record 12th time this season.

Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is released every Wednesday at 6 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.