Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
JJ Gabriel might look back on the game against Atletico in a few years’ time as the start of it all, and he’s made sure to keep it remembered.
The third pre-season friendly for Man Utd ended with a 2-1 win against Atletico for Michael Carrick’s side.
The story of the game happened in the 81st minute, when a 15-year-old JJ Gabriel made his first appearance for Man Utd.
He sent his first message after the landmark appearance, and many academy players reacted.
Manchester United v Atletico de Madrid - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
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JJ Gabriel reacts to Man Utd debut
Michael Carrick drip-fed Gabriel into the first team, from his missing the first game against Wrexham to making the squad against Rosenborg but not getting off the bench.
He finally received ten minutes against Atletico, and it wouldn’t be a surprise that he gets more in the next few games despite senior players returning.
He will hope this is the first in a long line of appearances, and he made sure to mark it with a heartfelt message on his Instagram.
Posting pictures of himself coming on for Bryan Mbeumo and in action, he wrote, “First team debut. Thank you to everyone for the support.”
There were reactions from Tyler Fletcher, who sent a heart emoji, as Jim Thwaites wrote, “Well done bro,” with a heart emoji.
Godwill Kukonki sent a raised hands emoji, as exciting academy star Jayden Ngwashi sent a fire emoji. Tom Heaton wrote, “First of many – congratulations pal”.
Benjamin Sesko, Ayden Heaven, new signing Tynan Thompson, and Amad were among the players who liked the post.
Yoro also recently moved to calm the fears of Gabriel walking the Alejandro Garnacho path by saying he’s humble, and the encouraging responses he received on his debut post confirm the same.
This is a player whose talent is recognised by his teammates, and everyone is doing their part in giving him the best possible platform to showcase himself.