Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has finally broken his silence on the growing drama surrounding teenage sensation JJ Gabriel.
Gabriel has reportedly asked United to terminate his contract with immediate effect, sending shockwaves through the club.
The stunning development became public just one day before United’s Carabao Cup clash against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Carrick stopped short of denying that Gabriel had requested an exit from Old Trafford.
He said after the 3-2 loss against Brighton (via Sky Sports): “We have to be a little bit careful on that one. He’s a 15-year-old boy. It’s more about the welfare, the care and the attention of JJ as a child really.
“He’s certainly a young man. The situation is what it is, but we have to be careful about the exposure and how much we jump on that.”
Gabriel had been in contention to make his long-awaited first-team debut against Brighton, but the demands from his representatives have instead left United facing a difficult situation.
The 15-year-old has also reportedly refused to train with the senior squad, with his father playing a leading role in his representation.
Gabriel remains under contract with United until the end of next summer, but the teenage prodigy is reportedly determined to leave immediately.
Real Madrid now appear to be positioning themselves at the front of the queue to sign one of the most highly rated young talents in European football.
Gabriel enjoyed a remarkable breakthrough last season, winning the inaugural U18 Premier League Player of the Year award before collecting United’s Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year prize.
The teenager possesses enormous potential and could become one of the biggest names in the sport, but the unfolding situation has placed United in an increasingly delicate position.
Carrick has deliberately kept his comments measured, but the coming days could prove decisive in determining the fate of the youngster.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com