Manchester United’s Europa League ambitions have taken a hit, as teenage striker Chido Obi will be unavailable for the knockout rounds. The 17-year-old, who has made an impression in recent cameo appearances, was left out of United’s updated squad following the January transfer window.
With the Red Devils languishing in 14th place in the Premier League and suffering an FA Cup exit at the hands of Fulham, their European campaign represents their last shot at silverware this season. Despite finishing third in the league phase, United face a daunting last-16 clash against Real Sociedad, who dismantled Midtjylland 7-3 on aggregate in the playoffs.
Obi has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise frustrating season. Since arriving from Arsenal’s academy last summer, he has featured in three matches as a substitute, displaying promise in attack despite not yet scoring. His progress has been noted by manager Ruben Amorim, who hinted that he could soon earn his first senior start.
“Anything can happen in the next games and training,” Amorim said after United’s FA Cup elimination. “We don’t have much time to train, but we need to assess the opposition and our players’ physical conditions with so many games coming up.”
United’s biggest concern remains their lack of goals. Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund have struggled for form, combining for just 11 goals across all competitions. Højlund’s barren spell is particularly concerning, with the Danish forward now 18 games without scoring.
Obi’s ineligibility for the Europa League is due to squad registration restrictions. Since he joined late in the summer transfer window, he was not included in the initial league-phase squad. In January, United chose to register Patrick Dorgu, Ayden Heaven, and Jack Fletcher in place of the departing Marcus Rashford, Tyrell Malacia, and Antony, leaving no room for Obi.
With their attacking options already misfiring, Amorim must find a solution quickly. As United prepare for a crucial Europa League showdown with Real Sociedad, their ability to find goals could determine the fate of their season.