Tuesday night saw the U21s in action for Manchester United in the National League Cup, with two U18 players stealing the show.
The National League Cup is yet another tournament in which the U21s get to show their class against senior opposition.
Manchester United will be extremely proud of the players. After beating Rochdale 1-0 on Tuesday night, the Red Devils are clear at the top of Group B with nine points from nine.
After beating Altrincham and also Forest Green, this was yet the latest example of Travis Binnion’s United side being ready for the step up and for most, even a loan.
Amir Ibragimov’s strike won the night for United as he once again proved himself to be the star everyone at the club thought he would be.
Amir Ibragimov and Chido Obi-Martin combine at U21 level
After a tough night away from home at Rochdale, it was an 82nd-minute Ibragimov strike from outside the box which saw all three points head back to Carrington.
The goal was excellently taken as he drove the ball low to leave the Rochdale goalkeeper zero chance.
Impressively, the assist came via a recent professional contract signer 17-year-old Chido Obi-Martin who with one of his first touches as he controlled the ball before laying it off to Ibragimov.
This was his first contribution at the U21 level for United – days after Obi-Martin broke records at the U18 level – and showed some excellent central forward play to hold the ball and release Ibragimov.
READ: Man Utd under-18s top scorers and assists in 2024/25, all results
The two U18 stars have been on fire this season with Ibragimov now scoring seven for both U18 and U21, while also assisting six goals.
Meanwhile, it is six goals and two assists for Obi-Martin.
Undoubtedly, these are the two major stars for the academy right now.
READ: Man Utd under-21s top scorers and assists in 2024/25, all results
Ibragimov sends message after Manchester United win
After scoring his second goal in the National League Cup – aged just 16 – Ibragimov took to Instagram with a message as he continued his impressive season.
The Dagestan-born wonderkid wrote: “Happy to get a win for the team @manchesterunited”. This is accompanied by a picture of his breathtaking celebration which was Nani-esque.
Ethan Wheatley made this very comparison as he commented a GIF of Nani. While Samuel Lusale commented: “Never a doubt”.
Shea Lacey reacted with two clapping emojis while U21 ace Sam Mather wrote: “My boy”.
Despite being the youngest player on the pitch, Ibragimov is establishing himself as the very best talent at the club, living up to all the potential he has been tipped to have.
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