Transfers
Wayne Rooney says Manchester United’s JJ Gabriel likely to head for Spain
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has said that the 15‑year‑old forward JJ Gabriel is expected to leave the club for Spain, a prospect he described as "not a surprise" after hearing it for years. The claim was made on the Disney+ programme Stick to United, where Rooney spoke about the youngster’s desire to play abroad.
Club’s attempts to retain the prodigy
United have reportedly done "absolutely everything" to keep Gabriel, who compared the treatment to his own experience at Everton where young talents receive special support. Manager Michael Carrick echoed the need for caution, insisting the club must protect the boy from undue pressure and that the situation will "work itself out".
Gabriel, who has been a regular in United’s academy, was slated to make his first‑team debut in the Carabao Cup tie against Brighton before the news broke. He has already impressed at youth level, scoring 29 goals and providing four assists in 32 Under‑18 matches, plus two goals and two assists in two Under‑21 outings.
United face a talent vacuum as JJ Gabriel seeks European exit
Spanish interest and possible hurdles
Talks have reportedly taken place with Barcelona and Real Madrid about a potential move, although United could block a transfer, which might require a tribunal to resolve. Rooney suggested that the club’s special treatment of Gabriel could be a factor in the decision, noting that "the club have treated him probably differently to the other players because he is such a special talent".
Rooney, whose son Kai also plays in United’s academy, said he has "seen JJ grow up" and that anyone close to the situation "knew that was coming". He added that a move to Spain would be a "shame" for United but not a surprise, and questioned whether Gabriel even supports United as a fan.
The report, written by Amie Wilson for Sport on 22 Sep 2026, includes a "View Image" tag and references to the club’s nickname MAN UTD, as well as the terms NEXT and UTD that appear in the source material.