Manchester United’s highly-rated academy winger JJ Gabriel has been promoted into first-team training at the age of 15, with the teenager now working alongside Erik ten Hag’s senior stars at Carrington.
Gabriel has earned the opportunity on the back of his rapid rise through the youth ranks and his standout performances at academy level, where his close control and direct running have already drawn comparisons from supporters and earned him the “Kid Messi” nickname.
The move has seen the youngster step up to sessions with United’s main squad as the club continues to monitor his development closely, giving him a chance to experience the demands and intensity of the first-team environment while still progressing through the academy set-up.
Gabriel’s involvement in senior training is the clearest indication yet of how highly United rate him internally, with the winger viewed as one of the most exciting prospects in the club’s youth system.
While the promotion does not confirm an immediate senior debut, training with the first team represents a significant milestone for the 15-year-old as he continues his progression at Old Trafford.
