A 15-year-old sensation who has been dubbed a 'Kid Messi' by fans is on the brink of his first senior minutes for Manchester United. JJ Gabriel has been named in Michael Carrick’s squad for Friday’s pre-season friendly against Rosenborg in Trondheim, and could become one of the youngest players ever to pull on the red shirt.
The teenager has been made to wait for his debut because of Premier League rules that prohibit players under 16 from playing top-flight football. But that hasn't stopped his coaches from heaping praise on a player who scored 23 goals for the Under-18s last season.
“15-year-old Manchester United sensation JJ Gabriel set for possible senior debut in pre-season friendly against Rosenborg.”
Manager Michael Carrick, who has given Gabriel chances to train with the senior squad, said: 'JJ is a big talent, it’s pretty obvious to know that. We obviously think an awful lot of him, but patience is important.' Former caretaker boss Darren Fletcher echoed that sentiment, telling The Athletic: 'JJ’s an amazing talent and has an enthusiasm for football that he brings to the pitch every day. He’s been a pleasure to work with.'
Head of academy Stephen Torpey, who joined United in 2025, added: 'We have some special talents right now in our groups, and JJ is one of those, for sure.'
Gabriel now has the chance to prove that on the senior stage. Whether he gets his debut in Norway will depend on Carrick’s judgement of the right moment to step up.