Super Eagles-eligible forward Chido Obi-Martin showcased his remarkable talent in a thrilling encounter between Arsenal U18 and Crystal Palace U18, where he scored four goals in an 8-3 victory.
The 16-year-old demonstrated his scoring prowess with a variety of finishes, including a tap-in, a long-range curler, a penalty, and a precise finish. This outstanding performance follows his earlier hat-trick against Southampton, showcasing his consistency in front of goal.
Obi-Martin's impact extends beyond scoring goals, as he displayed his ability to win the ball in midfield and initiate attacking plays. His contribution was pivotal in Arsenal's dominant win, as he not only found the back of the net but also influenced the flow of the game.
This isn't the first time Obi-Martin has caught the eye with his goal-scoring abilities. Earlier in the season, he scored a remarkable 10 goals against Liverpool's U16 side, a feat that highlighted his potential as a rising star in Arsenal's youth setup.
His impressive performances have earned him praise from Arsenal's U18 manager, Jack Wilshere, who commended his ability to create scoring opportunities and contribute to the team's overall play.
Obi-Martin's success is indicative of Arsenal's strong youth academy, which continues to produce talented players capable of making an impact at both the youth and senior levels. With players like Obi-Martin showcasing their abilities consistently, the future looks bright for Arsenal's academy and the club as a whole.
Chido Obi-Martin is a big part of the club's success
In addition to Chido Obi-Martin's heroics, the match against Crystal Palace also marked the debut of Arsenal's new signing, Brayden Clarke, who impressed as a center-back. Clarke's arrival adds depth to Arsenal's defensive options and further strengthens their youth setup.
Arsenal's U18 side, under the guidance of Wilshere, has been in formidable form throughout the season, scoring goals at an impressive rate. Despite their recent victory over Palace, they currently sit fifth in the standings, but with the potential to climb higher with games in hand.
The success of Arsenal's youth academy is further evidenced by the opportunities given to young prospects to train with the first team under manager Mikel Arteta. Players like Ayden Heaven have already made strides at the senior level, highlighting the pathway from the academy to the first team.
As Arsenal continues to nurture and develop young talents like Obi-Martin, the club remains committed to building for the future and maintaining a tradition of success both on and off the pitch. With a strong foundation in place, the Gunners look poised to continue producing stars for years to come.
