Romano reveals Man Utd ‘absolutely buzzing’ with rising Carrington star: “The next big thing” | OneFootball

Romano reveals Man Utd ‘absolutely buzzing’ with rising Carrington star: “The next big thing” | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: Stretty News

Stretty News

·16 March 2026

Romano reveals Man Utd ‘absolutely buzzing’ with rising Carrington star: “The next big thing”

Article image:Romano reveals Man Utd ‘absolutely buzzing’ with rising Carrington star: “The next big thing”

Fabrizio Romano emphasises the great expectations Manchester United are placing on their wonderkid, JJ Gabriel.

The teenager has only turned 15 in October, but he has already cemented himself as the main jewel of the club’s academy.


OneFootball Videos


DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The forward is currently the ultimate star in Darren Fletcher’s U18 side. He has thus far scored 20 goals and provided three assists across all competitions this season. Gabriel’s exploits include a host of sensational strikes.

JJ Gabriel taking everyone at Man Utd by storm

Needless to say, Man Utd are doing everything they can to shield the wonderkid and secure his services for years to come. Gabriel had attracted interest from Barcelona in the past, but INEOS have an agreement with the player’s parents to keep him at Carrington.

In the latest video posted on his official YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano revealed that Man Utd are absolutely delighted by the young man’s exploits. Everyone at the club agrees that he will be the ‘next big thing’

“They are absolutely buzzing with JJ Gabriel,” said the Italian journalist. “This boy, 15 years old, fantastic talent. I have already mentioned him on my channel as one of the best talents in Europe, and probably in the world.

“He is seen at Manchester United by people at the club as absolutely the next big thing”.

When could Gabriel make his senior Man Utd debut?

Romano added that Man Utd officials believe Gabriel has what it takes to emulate the swift impact Max Dowman made at Arsenal.

The 16-year-old midfielder guided the Gunners towards a vital 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday, creating the first goal, before netting the second himself to become the youngest ever goal-scorer in Premier League history.

The EPL regulations prevent the United wonderkid from making his senior debut this campaign due to his tender age, but he’ll be eligible to play starting next season

Nevertheless, the natural course of development would see Gabriel promoted to the club’s U21 side, which is the last age group before reaching the first team.

Therefore, the teenager’s first step with the seniors is considered a matter of if rather than when.

View publisher imprint