Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
There is renewed life in the Manchester United academy right now, with Michael Carrick now drafting one talent into the first team for training.
The pathway to Manchester United’s first team feels wide open right now, and this has seen academy players making their case.
Shea Lacey is undoubtedly ready to play for United, leaving little doubt about that with six goals in his last three games at the level.
This is because Michael Carrick’s use of Kobbie Mainoo has inspired belief in the academy, with players having something to look at and aspire to again.
Now, Carrick has showcased his willingness to integrate youth.
Jayce Fitzgerald walking out for Manchester United.
Photo by Poppy Townson – MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images
JJ Gabriel is back in first-team training under Michael Carrick
While United’s academy has taken criticism over the past year, there is no doubt that there are some ridiculous talents currently shining for the Red Devils.
One of whom is JJ Gabriel, widely considered to be a future world-class player, and Carrick has now shown interest in him.
JJ Gabriel in action for Manchester United U18.
Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images
United think Gabriel will be generational, and at 15, there is no reason to doubt this, considering how dominant he has been for the U18s.
This season has seen Gabriel train with the first team on occasion under Ruben Amorim, and now this has continued with Carrick.
Gabriel took to his Instagram story on Tuesday to reveal that he had been involved with the first team in training.
JJ Gabriel Instagram
JJ Gabriel Instagram
This clearly showcases that Carrick thinks he is good enough, but the continued exposure also likely stems from a club decision to prepare Gabriel.
The 15-year-old cannot debut this season; however, we suspect he will be involved during pre-season this summer and then be in contention for his debut thereafter.
JJ Gabriel celebrates for Manchester United.
Photo by Poppy Townson – MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images
Manchester United will be confident of keeping Gabriel
There was a point 12 months ago, and even sooner, when it felt like a formality that Gabriel would leave United as a youth player.
But Gabriel committed to a pre-scholar deal last summer, and since then, things have been looking up.
It was reported that United weren’t worried about Barcelona’s interest, with the feeling that the wonderkid is happy at Old Trafford.
More recently, Gabriel’s father has spoken highly of United, which indicates a sentiment shift toward the club after Amorim’s departure.
Gabriel has posted United results on his socials, clearly enjoying Carrick-ball, and if he commits, he may be playing under him next season.