Manchester United's teenage sensation JJ Gabriel marked his first goal at Old Trafford with a jubilant knee slide in front of the Stretford End, sparking hopes that it's the start of many more to come. At just 15 years, two months and three days old, Gabriel made history on Tuesday night as the youngest player to represent United in the FA Youth Cup, surpassing the previous record held by Omari Forson (15 years and four months). This is according to online records dating back to the 2006/2007 season.
There is also a chance that Gabriel could become United's youngest-ever Premier League player next season. The current record holders are Angel Gomes (16 years, 263 days), Shola Shoretire (17 years, 19 days) and Chido Obi (17 years, 79 days). While Gabriel is ineligible to play in the Premier League this season due to rules stating players must be 15 by August 31 of the campaign, he could potentially break United's record next term.
The club's under-18 side, who have a rich history in the Youth Cup - no club has won it more - were heavily favoured to kick off their campaign with a victory against Peterborough. However, it was disappointing that academy director Stephen Torpey seemed to be the only notable figure present in the directors' box.
Neither Jason Wilcox nor any member of Ruben Amorim's coaching staff were spotted, and Erik ten Hag's visit to Altrincham to watch the Under-21s in September 2022 now seems taken for granted.
Gabriel has already been introduced to Amorim, recently participating in his maiden senior training session, prompting Amorim to declare at a press conference: "I know he is a really talented guy."
The few hundred spectators at Old Trafford, predominantly friends and family of the players, didn't have to wait long to witness that talent as Gabriel showcased his pace and skill down the left flank. The youngster, who has been dubbed the 'next Neymar', displayed dribbling ability that harked back to the Brazilian winger at his peak.
Louis Bradbury squandered the match's opening chance, dragging his effort wide of the upright. While every young striker misses opportunities, Gabriel is no ordinary teenager and ruthlessly converted his first chance.
He is held in such high regard that Omar Berrada and Wilcox held last-minute talks to retain him during the summer. Every major European club is keen to prise the teenager away.
United have reportedly offered Gabriel a box at the new Old Trafford, scheduled for completion by 2030, with staff believing he could become the club's figurehead if he remains in Manchester.
Darren Fletcher, who took the reins as under-18 manager last summer, has been lauded for his management of young talent Gabriel this season, with a focus on maximising his ball possession.
This strategy has proven effective in most matches - give the ball to Gabriel and he'll create opportunities. The result is often a stylish goal from the youngster, as evidenced by his 11th strike of the season against Peterborough, marking just his 12th appearance.
Watching Gabriel weave through Peterborough's defence under the floodlights, it was hard not to draw parallels with Alejandro Garnacho. Garnacho was instrumental during the successful 2021/22 Youth Cup campaign, netting seven goals, and Gabriel seems poised to surpass that tally this term.
However, Gabriel alone cannot secure another Youth Cup victory for United. It will require a collective effort and United can count on other talented players like Bendito Mantato, Jim Thwaites, Godwill Kukonki and Daniel Armer to lead the charge.