Arsenal have a potential superstar within their academy in striking sensation Chido Martin Obi, and he is desperate to reach the top level.
The 16-year-old has had a record-breaking campaign for the Arsenal under-18 side, scoring a remarkable 29 goals in 17 U18 Premier League matches.
He has scored at least once in each of his last eight matches in the competition, and this includes a five-goal haul against West Ham, a seven-goal haul against Norwich City, and two four-goal hauls against Crystal Palace and Fulham.
There has been speculation over his future, with several clubs interested as Arsenal attempt to tie him down to a new contract when he turns 17, and the Gunners are seriously impressed with him both on and off the pitch.
Arsenal starlet Chido Martin Obi is now doing extra training
A report from The Athletic has revealed that the teenager is partaking in extra training sessions beyond what is otherwise expected of him, and is aiming to be a role model despite his young age.
“There is an understanding from Martin Obi that talent alone will not determine his future. He often does extra training on his own at Arsenal while balancing his studies. This month, for instance, he will travel to the European Under-17 Championships in Cyprus with Denmark while also studying for his GCSE exams in the summer. Part of a big family, he wants to be an example for his younger brother,” the report stated.
What level should Chido Martin Obi be playing at?
It is clear from his recent form that the striker is too good to still be featuring at under-18 level, and he has expressed a desire to make a step up.
There will be little benefit to his development in continuing at that level next season, and him continuing to put up unprecedented numbers could even hinder the development of the players around him.
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At 16, he is yet to sign professional terms, and is still likely some way off first-team level. However, at this point he should make the step-up to the under-21s.
Even if the attacker initially struggles to adapt to the step-up, this could be much more beneficial to his long-term development than remaining in the under-18s, and it is clear from his behaviour off the pitch that he has the determination to succeed at the top.