Arsenal has made a significant decision regarding young striker Chido Obi-Martin following extensive discussions with manager Mikel Arteta. Despite being linked with several top-tier center-forwards for the upcoming 2024/25 season, including Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen, Aleksander Isak, and Ollie Watkins, it seems unlikely any of these targets will join the club before the start of September.
Young Talent Chido Obi-Martin Set to Leave
One confirmed departure is academy prodigy Chido Obi-Martin. Arsenal recently announced their new first-year scholars, and Obi-Martin was noticeably absent, signaling his imminent exit. The 16-year-old striker has drawn interest from several European teams, including Bayern Munich, Newcastle, AS Monaco, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Manchester United, with the latter even hosting him for a visit. Liverpool, however, has not been linked with Obi-Martin.
A Worrying Trend for Arsenal’s Academy
Despite holding face-to-face talks with Arteta that initially built confidence in Obi-Martin staying, it is now evident he will leave. This continues a worrying trend for Arsenal, with other young talents like Reuell Walters and Amario Cozier-Duberry also opting to leave the club this summer in search of better opportunities. While Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe have successfully broken into the first team from the academy, other talents have struggled to find similar opportunities.
Concerns for the Future
Arsenal fans may be concerned by this trend, especially as the club continues its search for new talent to bolster the squad. With key players potentially leaving and new signings looking unlikely, the challenge of building a dream squad for the upcoming season remains formidable for Mikel Arteta.
