Chido Obi suffers devastating head injury

Manchester United’s Under-21s were dealt an early setback during their Premier League 2 clash with Chelsea after Chido Obi was forced off with a head injury.

The young forward, who joined United from Arsenal as part of the club’s ongoing academy recruitment drive, lasted just six minutes before going down following an aerial challenge.

Medical staff were quickly called onto the pitch as play was halted to assess the situation.

Obi was unable to continue and was replaced by Victor Musa in the sixth minute, with the club later confirming that it was a head injury.

The incident cast a shadow over the early stages of the fixture as team-mates and supporters awaited reassurance.

The Danish youth international has been regarded as one of the brightest attacking prospects in his age group, having made headlines prior to his move to Carrington.

His switch from Arsenal was seen as a significant coup for United’s academy structure, with the striker expected to feature prominently in Premier League 2 this season.

Another head injury occurred at the interval.

Manchester United made a further change as Yuel Helafu replaced Sonny Aljofree following a clash of heads late in the first half.

The incident prompted immediate concern from the bench, with medical staff quickly assessing Aljofree on the pitch.

Although he was able to walk off, the decision was taken not to risk any further involvement.

United are understood to be following strict concussion protocols, prioritising player welfare over match rhythm in their Premier League 2 encounter.

The substitution underlined the club’s cautious approach, particularly at academy level, where head injuries are treated with maximum care.

Head injuries are always treated with caution, particularly at youth level, with strict concussion protocols now firmly embedded in English football.