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Teen prodigy 'Kid Messi' set to leave Manchester United
15 Sep
Summary
- 15-year-old JJ Gabriel wants to leave Manchester United.
- He is nicknamed 'Kid Messi' due to exceptional skills.
- Barcelona and Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing him.
Manchester United faces a potential exodus of academy talent as 15-year-old prodigy JJ Gabriel, nicknamed 'Kid Messi,' has reportedly expressed his intention to leave the club. This decision comes shortly after a significant home defeat and raises questions about the academy's management.
Gabriel, born in October 2010, joined United at age 11 and has already achieved remarkable milestones. At just 14 in April 2025, he became the youngest player to feature for the U18s, scoring twice on his debut. He was subsequently named the 2025-26 U18 Premier League Player of the Season and even made an unofficial senior appearance in August 2026.
Sources indicate a breakdown in the relationship between Gabriel's family and the club led to his decision. Despite the potential loss, Manchester United still has an opportunity to persuade him to stay. The news has reportedly alerted top clubs, with Barcelona and Arsenal expressing interest in acquiring the highly-rated teenager.
