Manchester United could hand a historic senior debut to 15-year-old attacking prodigy JJ Gabriel in this weekend's FA Cup third-round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Fletcher's Youthful Faith
Caretaker manager Darren Fletcher will remain in charge for the visit of Brighton to Old Trafford on Sunday. The former United midfielder, who took temporary control following Ruben Amorim's sacking on Monday morning, has already shown a willingness to trust youth. In Wednesday's 2-2 draw at Burnley, he brought on 17-year-old Shea Lacey, who impressed by hitting the crossbar.
Now, Fletcher's attention turns to an even younger talent. Joseph Junior Andreou Gabriel, known as JJ Gabriel, is reportedly in contention for a place in the matchday squad. The forward has been involved with first-team training this week under Fletcher, who knows him well from his usual role coaching the club's under-18 side.
A Record-Breaking Prodigy
Gabriel, who celebrated his 15th birthday on October 6, is already making waves in the academy. This season, he has scored 10 goals in 13 appearances in the U18 Premier League. Last month, he wrote his name into the club's history books by becoming United's youngest ever scorer in the FA Youth Cup, netting the only goal in a victory over Peterborough at Old Trafford.
His dazzling style has drawn comparisons to Brazilian icon Neymar. United's faith in the England under-16 international was demonstrated in June when he signed a two-year professional deal, with director of football Jason Wilcox involved in negotiations. The club's long-term plans for him are significant, with reports suggesting he has even been offered his own executive box at United's planned new £2 billion stadium.
Eligibility and Opportunity
While Premier League rules prevent him from featuring in the league this season—as players must be 15 by August 31—he is fully eligible to play in the FA Cup. His potential promotion is also timely given United's shortage of attacking options, with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad away at the Africa Cup of Nations and Joshua Zirkzee linked with a departure.
Sunday's match represents a crucial opportunity for United, with the FA Cup their last realistic chance of winning silverware this season. For JJ Gabriel, it could be the first step on a journey the club hopes will lead all the way to Wembley.
