England rugby union sensation Maro Itoje has expressed overwhelming family pride after his 15-year-old cousin, Chido Obi-Martin, made football history with a spectacular debut for Arsenal's youth team.
A Family Celebration of Sporting Excellence
The towering Saracens lock took to social media to share his immense pride after young striker Obi-Martin featured in Arsenal's Under-18 victory over Southampton, becoming one of the youngest players ever to represent the Gunners at that level.
'So proud of my cousin Chido making his debut for Arsenal U18s at just 15 years old,' the British and Irish Lions star posted across his platforms, accompanied by celebratory emojis that captured his family's excitement.
Record-Breaking Talent Runs in the Family
While Itoje has established himself as one of rugby's most formidable forwards, his teenage cousin is now carving his own path in North London. The Danish youth international's early emergence continues a remarkable trend of young talent development at Arsenal's famed Hale End academy.
Obi-Martin's debut comes amid growing excitement about his potential, with the teenager having already trained with Mikel Arteta's first team despite his tender age. His physical development and technical ability have drawn comparisons to some of Arsenal's most successful academy graduates.
Cross-Sport Family Support System
The connection between rugby and football excellence within the same family highlights the diverse sporting talent emerging from British communities. Itoje, known for his intellectual approach to rugby and social advocacy, now adds 'proud cousin' to his many roles as he supports the next generation of sporting achievement.
As Arsenal continue to invest in youth development, all eyes will be on whether Obi-Martin can follow in the footsteps of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe by transitioning from academy prospect to first-team regular.
