Manchester United's Chido Obi Ineligible for Europa League Clash Against Real Sociedad

Manchester United will be without teenage striker Chido Obi for their crucial Europa League round-of-16 first-leg clash against Real Sociedad on Thursday due to eligibility restrictions.

The 17-year-old forward has caught the eye in recent weeks, particularly with his performance in the FA Cup defeat to Fulham, where he replaced Rasmus Højlund and made an immediate impact. Obi registered three shots, forcing Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno into a key save, and completed all of his attempted dribbles.

However, despite his rising stock, Obi was not included in United’s revised Europa League squad. UEFA regulations prevented the youngster from being added to the 'B' list, which is reserved for academy players who have been with a club for at least two consecutive years. Having joined United from Arsenal last October, Obi did not meet the criteria.

When United had the opportunity to make three additions to their 'A' list squad before the knockout rounds, manager Ruben Amorim opted for January signings Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven instead, as Obi was not yet considered a senior squad member at the time.

Obi’s omission presents a challenge for Amorim, whose squad has been depleted by injuries, including setbacks for Amad Diallo and Kobbie Mainoo. The Red Devils also remain concerned about the fitness of Harry Maguire after he was forced off during the Fulham match with a muscle issue.

With Obi unavailable, Amorim may have to persist with Danish striker Højlund, who has struggled for form in recent months, or turn to alternative attacking options like Joshua Zirkzee.

United's hopes of securing silverware this season – and with it, a route back into next season’s Champions League – now largely hinge on their success in the Europa League. However, they will have to navigate their way past Real Sociedad without one of their most promising young attacking talents.

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