Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Manchester United have kept their promises to wonderkid JJ Gabriel so far.
In Manchester United’s 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid in pre-season, JJ Gabriel made his senior debut and became the youngest player to represent the Red Devils.
Gabriel was promised a first-team pathway by United when club chiefs stepped in to convince him to stay last summer. That promise was kept this summer.
At 15 years old, Gabriel is eligible to play in the Premier League this season for the first time, despite having not yet signed a professional contract.
Manchester United v Atletico de Madrid - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
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JJ Gabriel has been promised a senior contract
According to legendary football commentator Martin Tyler on The Joy of Football podcast, Gabriel has agreed to a five-year stay with United.
“He is 15, I believe, and has been with Manchester United’s first-team squad in their pre-season squad,” Tyler said.
“He has a five-year deal, but it gives him one or two guaranteed years as a full-time professional.”
Neil Barnett then added: “You cannot sign a professional contract until you are 17. So if he is 15, he has been promised a three-year professional contract when he is 17.
“That is standard now. If you are going to keep a scholar, it is standard practice to give them a three-year contract at 17.”
JJ Gabriel Instagram
JJ Gabriel is at the right place to shine
There was interest in Gabriel from Barcelona and Real Madrid last summer, but United convinced him that Carrington was the right place for his development.
Gabriel was outstanding in 2025/26 and deservedly won the Young Player of the Year award.
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That proved that United were right, and Gabriel can kick on and push for a first-team breakthrough.
In the long-term, Gabriel can be Bruno Fernandes’ successor, but it’s important for him to stay grounded and humble.