Manchester United have reportedly made a fresh decision about academy sensation JJ Gabriel, who is excelling in the Under-18s at the moment.
Manchester United have included an academy graduate in every matchday squad since October 1937, a record that highlights their long-standing commitment to youth development.
From icons like David Beckham and Paul Scholes to lesser-known names such as Josh Harrop and Demetri Mitchell, the club has consistently trusted its academy to supply first-team players.
That tradition continues today, with the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Tom Heaton, and Tyler Fredricson among the senior squad, while youngsters including Jack Fletcher, James Scanlon, Bendito Mantato, and Reece Munro have featured in training or pre-season games.
But the standout prospect at the moment is JJ Gabriel. After making his under-18s debut last season, the 14-year-old has quickly established himself as a regular under Darren Fletcher’s guidance.
United make fresh decision on academy starlet JJ Gabriel
Gabriel has made a fantastic start to the season, with five goals in three appearances in the U18s Premier League. He has started all three games too.
A report from GiveMeSport explains that United are ‘very excited’ about the development of the attacking talent but are unlikely to fast-track him into Ruben Amorim’s first-team soon.
It had been claimed elsewhere that Gabriel will start working with the first-team soon to allow him to test himself against top level players in training.
Despite United seemingly wanting to take time with Gabriel, the report also said that there is ‘optimism’ and a ‘belief’ that the 14-year-old could eventually become United’s youngest-ever Premier League player.
Angel Gomes currently holds that record after he appeared in a match in May 2017 at the age of 16 years and 263 days.
United have balancing act with Gabriel
Gabriel’s talent is quite unbelievable. He has played less than 10 games at Under-18s level but looks extremely comfortable and is the best technical player on the pitch in almost every match he plays.
The youngster has committed the next two years of his development to United and has spoken with first-team boss Amorim.
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United have a balancing act with Gabriel. Giving him too much too soon could hurt his development but there also must be incentives to ensure he does not leave to the likes of Barcelona or Real Madrid in a couple of years.
So far this season, things are going well for the youngster and he will almost certainly continue to draw attention with his performances in the Under-18s.
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