Charlie Grace

Wed 1 October 2025 16:45, UK

Manchester United must win against Sunderland on Saturday to avoid increasing animosity over the international break.

Man United were linked to Michael Carrick by reports as a potential candidate to take over from Ruben Amorim as the club’s poor run of form at the start of the season continued.

Brentford beat Man United 3-1 to dampen any optimism that had sparked from the Red Devils’ 2-1 win over Chelsea just a week prior.

Xavi has also been linked to Man United as a potential suitor to Amorim, but no decision is expected on the Portuguese head coach’s future until after the match against Sunderland.

14-year-old JJ Gabriel to join Man United first team training

Amorim is looking for a spark of inspiration from anywhere to kick his United side into gear as they hunt for some consistent form early in the season.

One potential source of rejuvenation may come from 14-year-old youth sensation JJ Gabriel, who is reportedly set to join first-team training with the club this campaign.

The Daily Mail have reported that Amorim has been a fan of Gabriel as far back as Man United’s pre-season tour in the US, and the head coach discussed a development framework with the 14-year-old in recent weeks.

The young left winger has notched seven goals in six games for Man United’s under-18s side and has attracted attention from Bayern Munich and Barcelona, amongst other clubs across Europe.

Gabriel is too young to take on any larger role for United this season, but the news that the pathway between the famed Carrington academy and the first team at Old Trafford is still bearing fruit will bring optimism to the Red Devils faithful.

JJ Gabriel is one of several youth stars who could give Man United renewed boost this season

Whether Amorim remains at the club to oversee Gabriel in training or not remains to be seen, but, in the event of his sacking, whoever takes over will have a host of talent capable of making an impact on the first team.

Youth stars Jayden Ngwashi and Jim Thwaites were both reported to have made impressions on Amorim in first-team training recently, and could be fast-tracked to United’s first team soon.

As Amorim continues to push the same failing formula in Man United’s fixtures, one or two youth products making headway in the academy could be the boost of divine inspiration the head coach needs to get his side clicking.

Whether it’s Amorim at the wheel or one of another host of linked names, there is plenty of exciting talent to be seen at Man United in the months and years to come.