Manchester United will be without young striker Chido Obi for their Europa League clash against Real Sociedad tonight. The 17-year-old, who joined from Arsenal last summer, has made rapid progress, earning a place in Ruben Amorim’s first-team squad.
Obi made his Premier League debut last month against Tottenham and has since featured against Everton and Fulham. His energetic FA Cup cameo against Fulham offered encouragement, particularly with Rasmus Hojlund struggling for form.
Despite his promise, Obi is ineligible for European competition due to UEFA rules requiring two years at a club for B-list inclusion. January signings Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven are available, but Amorim must rely on Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee up front.
Hojlund’s form remains a concern, with the Danish striker now enduring an 18-game goal drought. Former United defender Gary Neville highlighted the team’s lack of attacking balance, noting that Hojlund’s struggles were evident in the FA Cup loss to Fulham.
United’s squad issues deepen with Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte missing the trip due to minor injuries sustained in the FA Cup defeat. Their absence adds to a growing injury list, including Amad Diallo, Kobbie Mainoo, and Lisandro Martinez.
Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans, and Mason Mount also remain sidelined, along with goalkeepers Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton. Amorim faces a challenge in assembling a competitive lineup for the crucial away fixture.
One positive note is the return of young midfielder Toby Collyer, who participated in training before boarding the flight to Spain. His inclusion offers an additional midfield option for the match.
With Obi unavailable and Hojlund struggling, Manchester United will need a strong collective effort to secure a favorable result against Real Sociedad in the first leg.