Paul Merson has urged JJ Gabriel to be patient as the Manchester United academy star considers his future at Old Trafford.
The 15-year-old has reportedly asked to leave Manchester United, with his situation attracting attention after a difficult breakdown between his camp and the club. JJ Gabriel is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in the academy, but Merson believes the rapid rise of other teenagers could have influenced his thinking.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Paul Merson described Gabriel as an exceptional prospect.
“First of all, he’s an unbelievable talent. This kid, he can play as well,” Merson said.
Merson explains JJ Gabriel situation
Paul Merson suggested JJ Gabriel may be looking at the opportunities being handed to other young players and wondering why he isn’t getting the same chance at United.
“The problem is now with the lad and probably his agents and his family… I don’t know him so I’m thinking from the outside… when you’re watching Max Dowman and he’s getting given a chance and you’re watching Rio Ngumoha at Liverpool get given a chance and doing very well, he’s probably thinking: I should be playing at Manchester United now as well.”
“But you’re watching players like Dowman and Rio and he’s probably thinking, ‘I should be playing’.”
Merson also warned United that losing Gabriel would be a huge setback given the level of interest he is likely to attract.
“It’s a massive, massive blow for Manchester United,” he added.
“Believe me, this kid is an unbelievable talent and he’ll have every club in the world wanting him, every single club.”
“There won’t be a club that doesn’t want him.”
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