Man United starlet fires hat-trick amid calls to promote 14-year-old to first team

Manchester United fans are calling on an academy starlet to be promoted to the first team after his latest hat-trick - even though he's only 14.

JJ Gabriel, nicknamed “Kid Messi” by fans, lit up the Under-18 Premier League with a remarkable 22-minute hat-trick against Derby County, prompting calls for his rapid promotion to the senior squad.

Despite being three years younger than most of his teammates, Gabriel started in attack and wasted no time in showing why he is considered one of United’s brightest prospects.

He opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a composed finish, doubled his tally in the 14th minute, and completed his hat-trick before the half-hour mark. United went on to win 4–0, with Gabriel the undisputed star of the afternoon.

The teenager has now scored five goals in his first three appearances for the U18s, an astonishing return for someone still years away from eligibility for the FA Youth Cup.

His quick feet, ambidextrous finishing, and fearless dribbling have led supporters to draw comparisons with Lionel Messi, a label that is already following him around Carrington.

What makes the hype even more extraordinary is Gabriel’s integration into the wider club setup.

He trains regularly with Rúben Amorim’s first-team squad and has been handed squad number 95 — the highest in United’s history.

Off the pitch, his talent has been recognised with a Nike sponsorship, rare for a player so young, and he is contracted at Old Trafford until at least 2027.

Fans on social media erupted after his latest display, with many urging Amorim to fast-track the youngster into the senior squad given United’s mounting injury problems in attack.

While such a leap remains unlikely at this stage, the clamour reflects the excitement surrounding a player who could be the next jewel of the academy.

United’s history is built on developing world-class talent, from the Busby Babes to the Class of ’92. With JJ Gabriel already producing breathtaking performances, supporters are daring to believe that another homegrown star could soon take centre stage at Old Trafford.