Manchester United’s uneven start to the Premier League season has been followed by a troubling academy development, with 15-year-old forward JJ Gabriel seeking to leave the club immediately.
Manchester United face academy decision over JJ Gabriel
Gabriel, widely known around Old Trafford as “Kid Messi”, has submitted a formal request for his registration to be cancelled, which would allow him to become a free agent.
The teenager has been with United since the age of 11 and was named the club’s outstanding academy player last season. This term he had begun working around the first-team group and had been expected to feature in the squad for Wednesday’s League Cup tie against Brighton.
| Manchester United snapshot | Detail |
|---|---|
| Premier League form | One win from four matches |
| League position | Mid-table |
| Next fixture | Brighton, League Cup, Wednesday |
| Player concerned | JJ Gabriel, 15-year-old forward |
In the dressing room
United cannot simply remove Gabriel’s registration on their own. As he is under age, any cancellation requires agreement between the club, the player and his parents or legal guardians.
If no settlement is reached, the Premier League would have to rule on the matter. Gabriel cannot sign a professional contract before turning 17, however, which leaves the prospect of an exit looking increasingly realistic unless United can persuade him to stay.
The timing is awkward for a club already trying to find its footing after collecting only one victory from its opening four league fixtures. The prospect of losing one of the academy’s most highly rated youngsters will do little to lighten the mood at Carrington.
A forward with a growing reputation
Gabriel underlined his ability only last week, scoring a hat-trick in the Youth League. He can operate across the front line, although his principal role is through the middle.
He was not included in United’s Champions League List A. He cannot be added to List B until 6 October, when he reaches his 16th birthday.
His progress has drawn admiration from prominent former United players. Rio Ferdinand has praised Gabriel’s comfort with either foot, his ability to create space quickly and his knack for avoiding contact despite his slight frame. Ryan Giggs has described him as a generational talent.
The week ahead
United’s immediate attention turns to Brighton in the League Cup, but the Gabriel situation will remain close to the surface. A youngster who appeared to be moving towards the senior picture is now waiting on talks over his registration, while the manager’s side look for a second win in five Premier League matches.
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Manchester United face JJ Gabriel exit concern as academy star seeks release
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Manchester United face JJ Gabriel exit concern
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Manchester United academy forward JJ Gabriel, 15, has asked to cancel his registration as the club prepare for Brighton in the League Cup.
