Ruben Amorim Explains Chido Obi's Early Promotion and Issues Clear Warning to Manchester United Academy Prospects

‎Ruben Amorim has delivered a direct assessment of Manchester United’s academy pathway, stating that Chido Obi’s promotion last season came “too soon” and reminding rising talents that first-team places must be earned. The comments arrive at a moment of increased scrutiny, as United are yet to start a homegrown player in the Premier League this season.

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‎Ruben Amorim says Chido Obi’s Man Utd promotion came too soon as he outlines strict standards for academy stars amid squad shortages and AFCON absences.

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‎Questions regarding Obi and Shea Lacey’s readiness surfaced ahead of United’s upcoming fixture against Everton, with several senior attackers unavailable due to injuries and Africa Cup of Nations absences. Amorim acknowledged the heightened focus on Carrington graduates while maintaining that readiness is determined by performance levels, not short-term squad needs.

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‎Supporters have pointed toward academy talent with Benjamin Sesko sidelined and both Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo preparing for AFCON duty. Obi made eight senior appearances last season at just 16, and Lacey has impressed since returning from injury, but Amorim reiterated that immediate elevation requires more than potential.

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‎The manager expanded on broader structural changes aimed at closing the gap between youth and senior demands, highlighting training intensity, physical preparation and psychological resilience as essential components. He explained that development resources, including newly added nutritional support, are being enhanced to create a smoother transition for emerging players.

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‎“He played last year, but I think it was too soon,” Amorim said when asked specifically about Obi’s chances. “We didn't have a team we could put a young kid of 16 into and him not struggle. He's one of the guys but he started too soon. Sometimes it's hard to deal with that, with the kids, because they think that ‘I'm already here’. We need to be careful with that.”

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‎Speaking on Lacey, Amorim stated that the winger has shown meaningful progress following a period of injuries. He noted the difference in speed and physical demand at first-team level and said Lacey needs sustained exposure to senior training to build readiness.

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‎Amorim also discussed the importance of professionalism when young players step into senior environments. He described the necessity of strong habits, consistent behaviour and a clear connection between academy and first-team operations. The improvements being implemented are intended to give staff more confidence when young players are eventually introduced to Premier League action.

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‎Obi remains one of the most talked-about prospects in England following a prolific youth career that included a record-breaking spell with Arsenal’s academy before joining Manchester United in 2024. His eight senior appearances and status as the youngest Premier League starter in United’s history reflect his potential, yet the club’s current plan under Amorim focuses on long-term progression rather than accelerated promotion.

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‎Lacey has enjoyed a strong return following injury and signed a long-term deal until 2029. His performances for United’s U21s and England youth sides have kept him close to first-team consideration, and he has already been included in senior squads this season.

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‎United’s upcoming winter schedule includes seven matches in 30 days, creating scenarios in which opportunities may arise for young attackers. Amorim emphasized that any involvement for Obi or Lacey will depend on meeting tactical and physical standards during training.

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‎The club’s December fixture list is lighter than that of their European competitors, yet still packed enough to test squad depth as United prepare to face Crystal Palace on November 30.