Mikel Arteta Reacts to Chido Obi-Martin Arsenal Departure Ahead of United Clash

Mikel Arteta calls Chido Obi Martin departure to Manchester United “very unfortunate” and reaffirms Arsenal commitment to youth talent.

Chido Obi-Martin departure from Arsenal has drawn a heartfelt response from manager Mikel Arteta, who called the move to Manchester United “very unfortunate.”

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has spoken publicly about the exit of 17-year-old striker Chido Obi-Martin, who left the club last summer to join Premier League rivals Manchester United. Once regarded as one of the brightest talents in Arsenal’s academy, Obi’s decision to switch clubs surprised many fans and insiders.

Arteta Calls Obi’s Exit “Very Unfortunate”

Ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League match against Manchester United, Arteta shared his thoughts on Obi’s departure. “When a player decides the best pathway is to leave, there’s not much you can do,” he said, expressing disappointment over the loss of a promising academy graduate.

Arteta clarified that he wasn’t deeply involved in the decision-making process and emphasized that the club respects individual choices, even when they’re difficult to accept.

Arsenal’s Commitment to Youth Development

Despite Obi’s exit, Arteta reaffirmed Arsenal’s dedication to developing young talent. “We want to keep our players from the academy and for them to be very successful with the first team, but in this case, we were unable to do that,” he explained.

The manager pointed to the success of other academy stars like Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly as proof that Arsenal’s youth system remains strong and effective.

Obi’s move to Manchester United comes at a time when the club is struggling with form in front of goal. With their senior strikers underperforming, the young forward may have a chance to break into the first team and make an impact.

Arteta acknowledged the challenge United poses but remains focused on Arsenal’s preparation and the continued growth of his squad. The upcoming match will mark Obi’s first opportunity to face his former club since the transfer.

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