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JJ Gabriel (10) of Manchester United ahead of the FA Youth Cup Final match between U18 Manchester City and U18 Manchester United at the Joie Stadium, Manchester, UK on 14 May 2026.
JJ Gabriel Pro Sports Images

JJ Gabriel exit request raises fresh questions for Manchester United

Manchester United’s disappointing derby defeat was quickly overshadowed by another worrying development. As teenage sensation JJ Gabriel pushes for a move away, ALEX CROOK examines what it could mean for the club’s future.

15.09.26, 20:37 Updated 15.09.26, 20:37

Alex Crook

Alex Crook

Just when Michael Carrick was in need of a quiet news week, teenage sensation JJ Gabriel and his advisors had other ideas.

Carrick was no doubt still reeling from Sunday’s 1-0 Manchester derby defeat to ten-man City when he heard the bombshell news that Gabriel had asked to leave Old Trafford.

The whispers that Gabriel, possibly encouraged by those advising him, is hankering for a move away have been growing louder in recent weeks.

The writing appeared to be on the wall after the 15-year-old goal machine removed all mention of United from his social media accounts last Friday.

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Alex Crook

Alex Crook Editor

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