Rúben Amorim has opted to hand 17-year-old Chido Obi his first-ever start as Manchester United face Brentford in Premier League action this weekend.
Manchester United return to domestic duty seeking to stop a worrying slump—they haven’t won any of their last five league outings—after dispatching Athletic Club 3-0 away in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final.
An early Casemiro header set the tone before Bruno Fernandes struck twice to give United a commanding lead ahead of next Thursday’s return at Old Trafford.
With that crucial European tie on the horizon, Amorim has rotated his side for the trip to Brentford, resting several senior stars to keep them fresh for Thursday’s showdown.
Now, it’s down to a rotated squad—and debutant Chido Obi—to spark a league resurgence and build momentum ahead of the second leg. The likes of Fernandes and Amad are on the bench to make an impact if needed.
Amorim explains why Obi starts vs Brentford
After making six appearances from the bench in recent months, Obi finally gets the opportunity to play from the start for Amorim’s men.
The young centre-forward has not yet scored in any of his cameos but came close on several occasions. If he nets in the Premier League before the end of the season, he would become the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer in the competition.
Speaking about the decision to put Obi in from the start, Amorim has downplayed the importance of the game for the teenager and explained that he believes he’s ready to cope from the start.
The United boss highlighted the performance Obi had in his last appearance against Wolves as part of the reason why he is starting at Brentford, as well as the need to utilise the youth players at his disposal.
“I think we need to focus a lot on our young players. For me, it’s not a massive game for Chido. I know that it’s important for Chido, but I don’t want a lot of pressure on Chido, I just want him to do what he knows,” Amorim told Sky Sports.
“He played really well in those minutes against Wolverhampton. He’s improving a lot, and then Newcastle, the rotation. I feel that he’s ready to cope with the demands of the Premier League.”
Amorim praises Amass and Fredricson
Obi is not the only youngster starting this game, with Harry Amass and Tyler Fredricson also in the team after they were two of United’s best players against Wolves.
Amorim has issued immense praise for the defensive pair ahead of the game, stating that they have both shown that they are prepared to play at this level.
“Amass has already shown that he’s ready, Tyler; the same,” continued Amorim. “It will be tough on them because this team is really strong in front, with a lot of pace, but they are improving, so they are ready.”
Brentford are a tough opposition but it will be a great test for some of the young players, who will be itching to impress the fans and Amorim.
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