Ruben Amorim Warns Man Utd Youth: Obi Thrust Into First Team “Too Soon”
Manchester United’s academy pathway is under fresh scrutiny after head coach Ruben Amorim admitted that one of the club’s most promising teenagers, Chido Obi, was given his first-team breakthrough “too soon” last season. Speaking ahead of United’s Premier League clash with Everton, Amorim offered an unusually candid assessment of how young talents are being integrated into the senior squad, while sending a clear message to academy players: first-team opportunities must be earned, not handed out.
Obi, who made eight senior appearances at just 16, became one of the youngest Premier League starters in United history. Despite his record-breaking rise through the youth ranks, Amorim stressed that the physical and psychological demands on a 16-year-old competing at the senior level were immense. “He played last year, but I think it was too soon,” Amorim said. “We didn’t have a team we could put a young kid of 16 into and him not struggle. Sometimes it’s hard because the kids think, ‘I’m already here.’ We need to be careful with that.”
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The conversation also turned to Shea Lacey, another highly-rated prospect who has impressed at youth level since recovering from injury. Amorim praised his progress but reiterated that raw talent alone is not enough. “He has a lot of talent, but when they come here, they can sense the speed is completely different, so they need to spend more time with us to be prepared because our training is hard,” the Portuguese manager explained.
Amorim highlighted broader structural improvements within United’s academy, including measures like introducing a nutritionist for young players and refining the transition from Carrington to first-team training. These steps are designed to ensure that academy graduates are physically and mentally ready before taking the Premier League stage. He noted that when youngsters are called up, they need to behave professionally and be fully prepared for the challenge.
With injuries and Africa Cup of Nations call-ups affecting key first-team players, attention has turned to Carrington’s brightest talents. While Obi and Lacey may see opportunities in the coming weeks, Amorim is clear that minutes will be earned through training standards and tactical readiness, not handed out due to short-term necessity.
Obi’s journey from prolific U18 scorer to a teenage Premier League debutant has captured headlines, but Amorim’s approach now emphasizes steady, controlled development rather than rapid exposure. Lacey, meanwhile, has been integrated consistently into first-team training and is seen as a realistic option during the AFCON period.
As United navigate a congested winter schedule with seven games in 30 days, the club’s approach to youth development will be closely watched. Amorim’s message is firm: talent opens the door, but readiness, professionalism, and resilience will determine whether young stars like Obi and Lacey can truly shine at Old Trafford.
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