Manchester United’s academy has built a reputation as one of football’s most reliable talent pipelines, consistently producing players who grow into stars across Europe. From one generation to the next, Carrington continues to nurture gifted youngsters who rise through the ranks and eventually break into the senior squad. Now, a new prospect is beginning to capture widespread attention — JJ Gabriel.
Matthijs de Ligt is the latest senior player to openly praise the teenager’s remarkable growth. The Dutch centre-back revealed that Gabriel’s recent training performance was nothing short of astonishing. De Ligt claimed the youngster dribbled past him an incredible 15 times in one session and even bagged a hattrick against Lemmen, another talented emerging player. Coming from someone with de Ligt’s experience and defensive pedigree, these comments highlight just how quickly Gabriel is evolving.
According to de Ligt, Gabriel displays a rare combination of maturity, aggression, and fearlessness despite his age. He described the forward as technically gifted, mentally sharp, and bold in possession — traits usually seen in seasoned attackers rather than academy prospects. His explosive showing in training wasn’t just impressive; it was a clear indication that he may already be pushing for senior involvement.
With a Premier League fixture against West Ham looming, many believe this could be the ideal moment to give Gabriel his breakthrough. Those around the squad insist he has already demonstrated the qualities needed to compete at first-team level. His dribbling is dynamic, his tight-space control is exceptional, and his agility unsettles even established defenders. On top of that, his ability to score a training-ground hattrick under pressure reveals he can perform when it matters.
It isn’t only de Ligt who has taken notice. Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and other senior players have reportedly expressed surprise at how consistently Gabriel excels during sessions. When seasoned professionals react like that to a teenager, it speaks volumes about his potential.
Fans are also buzzing with excitement. Social media is filled with clips and reactions, with many supporters urging Ruben Amorim to include the youngster in the matchday squad. They believe Gabriel could inject unpredictability, energy, and flair into an attack that has lacked spark at times this season.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Amorim. Should he throw the youngster into Premier League action now, or continue to develop him gradually? Inside sources suggest the coaching staff believes he is close — if not fully ready.
What’s becoming clear is that JJ Gabriel may be United’s next major academy breakthrough. Making a defender like de Ligt look average in training is no small achievement. If he earns his debut and performs, he could begin his journey toward becoming another homegrown star at Old Trafford.
