Barcelona has turned its attention to Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel, a name snappily gaining traction across the European football scene.
The 15- time-old forward has enjoyed a remarkable advance season, scoring ten pretensions in ten games for United’s Under-18s.
His recent chapeau-trick in a 7 – 0 palm over Liverpool only strengthened Barcelona’s admiration, with the Spanish titans keen to explore a move for one of England’s brightest youthful bents.
Manchester United, still, are far from unresistant in the situation. Director of football Jason Wilcox has been laboriously communicating with Gabriel’s family, emphasising the club’s fidelity to the teenager’s growth.
United indeed released their first sanctioned images of him training with the elderly team, a subtle but important communication about how largely he’s valued at Old Trafford. For numerous suckers, that moment felt like a clear sign that United are ready to invest in his future.
JJ Gabriel’s Pathway at Manchester United
Director Ruben Amorim has taken a particular interest in Gabriel’s development. In a sit-down meeting with the youth and his representatives, Amorim stressed the significance of integrating academe prospects into first-platoon sessions, giving them early exposure to the pace and pressure of elderly football.
He praised Gabriel’s natural faculty, countenance in front of things and maturity beyond his years, traits that have made him one of the most promising forwards in English youth football.
JJ Gabriel ain’t going anywhere.
He’s going to get paid properly and be guaranteed playing time.
He will make the bench in the FA Cup THIS SEASON, go on tour in the summer and start next season in the squad almost full-time.
Bookmark this#MUFC pic.twitter.com/GDfLoFQQdp
— The United Tribune (@utdtribune) December 4, 2025
Gabriel first joined United at ten years old and made his youth-platoon debut at 14, demonstrating just how advanced he is for his age.
Now working under Darren Fletcher, who leads the Under-18s, Gabriel has become a crucial figure in a team concentrated on developing homegrown stars.
With the FA Youth Cup approaching, there’s growing sanguinity he could make an appearance at Old Trafford against Peterborough United, an implicit corner in his youthful career.
Barcelona’s Interest and United’s Determination
Barcelona’s interest in Gabriel fits their long-standing strategy of relating elite teenage talents beforehand. They see him as a forward with specialised class, thing-scoring instincts and the confidence to match.
Still, United’s response has been clear and firm. The club is determined to keep Gabriel and is taking every professional step to cover one of their most precious academy prospects.
What Comes Next for the Young Prodigy?
With a strong support system, a clear development plan and growing involvement at the elderly position, JJ Gabriel’s near future appears forcefully aligned with Manchester United.
While the attention from Barcelona is flattering and clearly adds a subcaste of excitement, United are confident they can give the right terrain for his long-term career.
Quick Stats:
- Age: 15
- Goals: 10 in 10 matches
- Highlight: Hat-trick vs Liverpool Under-18s
