JJ Gabriel scored on his Manchester United FA Youth Cup debut at Old Trafford this week, and the 15-year-old is already being earmarked as the Red Devils' next big thing
19:39, 13 Dec 2025Updated 19:40, 13 Dec 2025
Ruben Amorim
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Ruben Amorim has a gem in his squad
When Manchester United's young talent, JJ Gabriel, made his debut at Old Trafford earlier this week, it seemed almost certain he would score.
Regarded as one of the most promising prospects globally, Gabriel took just 21 minutes to find the back of the net with a stunning strike in front of the Stretford End.
United legends such as Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo all represented the club in the FA Youth Cup before realising their dream of breaking into the first team.
Ruben Amorim was recently introduced to JJ Gabriel
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Ruben Amorim was recently introduced to JJ Gabriel(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Despite being only 15-years-old, Gabriel has already taken part in first-team training sessions at Carrington, and there is increasing speculation that he could become United's youngest ever Premier League debutant.
The youngster celebrated his 15th birthday in October, which means he can't play in the top flight this season, but it wouldn't be surprising to see Gabriel break United's record next term.
Those who have coached Gabriel believe he could smash numerous other records during his career. There's currently a buzz within youth football circles about what Gabriel might achieve, reports the Manchester Evening News.
JJ Gabriel
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JJ Gabriel is one of Manchester United's most-exciting academy prospects(Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)
Some academy followers suggest he could be the best talent United's academy has ever produced. Understandably, United want to manage expectations to help Gabriel focus on his development, but sources close to the youngster aren't worried about keeping him grounded.
He has strong family support and a group of friends who ensure he doesn't get carried away. To them, he's simply just JJ. However, there's a reason why United pulled out all the stops last summer to convince Gabriel to stay: talents like his are few and far between.
United were tipped off that Gabriel was on the verge of joining a European powerhouse, prompting a last-minute meeting at Carrington in a bid to retain the young star.
The presence of Jason Wilcox (director of football) and Omar Berrada (CEO) at the meeting underscores the high esteem in which Gabriel is held.
United emphasised that he could become the face of the club, and it was ultimately agreed that the teenage prodigy would stay in Manchester - the player's final decision was key.
There are opportunities for rival clubs to snatch academy players at 14 and 16. Gabriel has pledged his future to United for at least another two years.
But interest from Europe's top clubs is likely to ramp up as he matures, particularly given his European passport through his parents.
United recently introduced Gabriel to Ruben Amorim. During their chat, Amorim took the time to talk about his philosophy and stressed the importance of hard work, even citing an anecdote about Cristiano Ronaldo as an example.
Amorim played alongside Ronaldo for the Portuguese national team. The United boss shared tales of Ronaldo's dedication - he was always the first to arrive for training and the last to leave.
Gabriel has been offered a box at the new Old Trafford, set to be completed by 2030, and was invited along with his family to watch the Premier League opener against Arsenal from the directors' box.
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The fact that brands are already eager to collaborate with Gabriel, who attracted interest from Adidas before Nike outbid the German firm to sign him, speaks volumes.
The young talent has the potential to lead United to FA Youth Cup victory this season. Alejandro Garnacho used the competition as a launchpad just a few years ago, and it's expected that Gabriel will follow suit.
The path to making a senior debut can be complex for players within academy systems, but Gabriel is no ordinary teenager.