YOUTH
Manchester United threatens to lose JJ Gabriel, nicknamed Messi
Manchester United is in danger of losing one of its biggest talents: the fifteen‑year‑old striker JJ Gabriel has informed the club that he wants to terminate his registration with immediate effect. The wish was reported by English media, including The Telegraph, which were the first to report the news.
Rules and possible impasse
According to Premier League rules, a youth player's registration can only be terminated when the club, the player and his parent or guardian agree. Manchester United can therefore refuse to cooperate, allowing one of the parties to ask the league to make a binding decision.
Motives and recent performances
A reason for the decision is not known; Gabriel, whose full name is Joseph Junior Andreou Gabriel, does not appear to want to move to another club for now. Last week he scored a hat‑trick in the Youth League against Sabah, after which all references to Manchester United suddenly disappeared from his social media.
United face a talent vacuum as JJ Gabriel seeks European exit
The 15‑year‑old, who bears the nickname Kid Messi (nickname Messi'), won last season the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award and scored more than twenty goals for the Under‑18. He was seen as a candidate for a first‑team debut this season.
United even had plans to include Gabriel in the matchday squad on Wednesday for the League Cup tie against Brighton & Hove Albion. The BBC, however, reports that the departure is not yet definitive, as the club hopes to resolve the situation.
His contract runs until the end of this season, leaving time for negotiations before any decision is made.