Man Utd's 14-year-old wonderkid JJ Gabriel promoted to first team

Manchester United have told 14-year-old star JJ Gabriel that he is to train with the first team under manager Rúben Amorim.

The forward, already making waves in the club’s academy, is being tipped as one of the brightest prospects of his generation.

Gabriel, full name Joseph Junior Andreou Gabriel, made headlines earlier this year when he became the youngest player ever to represent United’s Under-18 side.

On his debut he scored twice in a remarkable 13–1 victory over Leeds, instantly announcing himself as a special talent.

At just 14, he is even too young to feature in the FA Youth Cup, yet his rapid development has already pushed him into senior training sessions at Carrington.

United have moved swiftly to secure his future. Amid growing interest from some of Europe’s elite clubs, Gabriel signed fresh terms earlier this summer, ensuring he remains tied to Old Trafford.

The club sees him as a cornerstone of its long-term project, with director of football Jason Wilcox and his team playing a key role in convincing the youngster and his family that Manchester remains the best environment for his growth.

Amorim, who has shown a willingness to trust young players, believes carefully integrating Gabriel into senior training will accelerate his progress without placing undue pressure on him.

The Portuguese coach has already included Gabriel in matchday experiences, even seating him in the directors’ box during recent fixtures. Such exposure, insiders suggest, is designed to give the teenager a sense of belonging at the top level.

Nicknamed by some as “Kid Messi,” Gabriel has amassed a large social media following, with over 100,000 Instagram followers despite his tender age, reported the BBC.

Comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo have also surfaced, given his flair, pace, and eye for goal.

While it remains far too early to predict his trajectory, United supporters are already buzzing at the prospect of witnessing another academy graduate blossom into a first-team star.

If handled correctly, JJ Gabriel’s rise could become one of the defining stories of Old Trafford’s next generation.