JJ Gabriel Included in Man United Squad Photo Amid Transfer Speculation
Wantaway youngster JJ Gabriel has been pictured in Manchester United's official squad photograph despite expressing a desire to leave the club, with Real Madrid and Barcelona reportedly interested.
Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel, who has expressed his desire to leave the club, has been included in the team's official squad photo for the season. The 15-year-old, who turns 16 on Tuesday, has reportedly attracted interest from both Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Gabriel informed United of his intention to depart last month, a move that contrasts with the club's belief that he would benefit from staying. His representatives may have also explored potential moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, as Gabriel is known to have traveled to Spain via France two weeks ago. Real Madrid is understood to be leading the pursuit, having held discussions with Gabriel's camp in recent weeks.
The squad photo, released on Monday, was reportedly taken on September 8, two days before Gabriel's last appearance for the club. He is pictured on the second row between goalkeeper Tom Heaton and fellow young player Harry Amass.
Sources indicate that Manchester United's stance remains that they will not de-register Gabriel and will continue efforts to persuade him to stay. However, there is an acknowledgment within the club that the situation could evolve after his 16th birthday. This milestone will activate his Irish passport, potentially facilitating easier international transfers due to bypassing non-European Union player limits in foreign leagues. At 16, Gabriel will also be legally permitted to have an agent.
The club's hierarchy is reportedly resistant to Gabriel's demand to terminate his registration and leave as a free agent, a scenario that could result in minimal compensation for a player potentially valued at millions. Should United opt to retain him until the end of the season, Gabriel could file an appeal with the Premier League or FIFA. FIFA regulations regarding young players' education could also be a factor, though options such as home-schooling exist.
United officials state their primary concern is Gabriel's welfare, emphasizing the club's duty of care. Barcelona previously hosted Gabriel in August 2024, offering him a tour of their facilities and introducing him to player Lamine Yamal. United's interest in Gabriel dates back to when he was 11, and he is considered a highly-rated prospect across Europe. He was expected to sign a first-year scholarship upon turning 16, which would have automatically led to a professional contract at 17.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has previously stated that the player's well-being is the utmost priority, regardless of his future at the club. "He's a young boy, JJ, and I think it's important that we certainly don't play anything out here," Carrick commented. "I think the exposure and the scrutiny and everything, you've got to be careful and be sensible and think of him as much as anything. So the situation will work itself out, whatever way it's going to work itself out. Making sure he's okay is the important thing."