Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Sat 7 March 2026 17:00, UK

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Manchester United fans were not afraid to express their excitement at the potential of 15-year-old JJ Gabriel after he scored a brilliant goal against Nottingham Forest Under-18s.

The midfielder has caught huge attention in the Man United academy this season, scoring an incredible 18 goals in just 19 games for the U18s.

There had been fears that Gabriel was set to leave the club last year, with negotiations over a pre-contract appearing to stumble.

But in the summer, an agreement was found, and the talent is set to put pen to paper on professional terms when he turns 17.

The excitement surrounding Gabriel can be summed up by the comparison to Man United captain Bruno Fernandes, who has been in exceptional form this season.

JJ Gabriel stuns again for Man United

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider last week that Gabriel is stunning coaches at Carrington, and it is easy to see why.

The midfielder is an extraordinary talent, and looks to be among England and the Red Devils’ brightest talents.

On Saturday, he added two more goals to his tally this season, marking a third consecutive league game in which he has scored a brace.

Since the start of February alone, Gabriel has scored eight goals and provided an assist in just five U18 Premier League games.

It was his second that left Man United fans in awe, with the midfielder picking up the ball and holding off his man before driving a stunning strike into the bottom corner.

“JJ Gabriel might be the greatest Carrington product ever,” wrote one stunned fan on social media.

Another made a big claim on the youngster’s future, and dubbed him the “Bruno successor in a year or two”, while another wrote: “His trajectory should be carefully monitored. His talent is generational”.

When could Gabriel make his senior debut?

Naturally, the comparison to Arsenal’s Max Dowman will be made when it comes to Gabriel.

The 16-year-old broke through for the Premier League leaders earlier this season at the age of 15, and has excelled in his appearances for Mikel Arteta’s team.

Yet Dowman had already moved up to U21 level at the academy – a step Gabriel has not yet taken.

It will not be long, however, and the first-team debut will surely follow. Patience may be required, though, as Man United look to take care of a talent who could be a star for the years to come.