JJ Gabriel travelled to Trondheim with the Manchester United first team, but the academy star did not feature in the 5-0 win over local side Rosenborg.
After losing 1-0 against Wrexham a week ago, Michael Carrick will be very happy with how Manchester United performed in the 5-0 win over Rosenborg on Friday.
The priority was giving as many minutes to as many players as possible, with Carrick’s priority being those who are most likely to be in the team at the start of the competitive season.
JJ Gabriel missed the defeat to Wrexham due to extended leave, but the youngster made the squad that travelled to Norway on Thursday afternoon.
JJ Gabriel sent this message after missing out on minutes vs Rosenborg – Do you think he will get a chance in upcoming games?
Was it the right call from Carrick or should he have got five minutes at the end?
JJ Gabriel made wait for Man Utd debut
When United In Focus spoke to a United fan from Norway ahead of the game, Gabriel was among the players attracting the most excitement.
The 15-year-old has yet to make an appearance for the first team, but it looks like that will come during the 2026 pre-season tour, even if he’s been made to wait longer than he would have hoped.
As one of United’s hottest prospects, starring for the U18s last term, Carrick will be eager to give Gabriel the best environment possible to thrive.
After being overlooked in the win over Rosenborg, Gabriel spent the match sitting on the bench before uploading a picture of his United jersey hanging in the dressing room to Instagram, along with the caption: “Patience.”
Not only must Gabriel be patient for his chances at United, but he must also realise that at 15, he’s already years ahead of talents his own age.
Gabriel warrants the excitement so many United fans have in him. It’s only a matter of time before he makes an appearance in the first team.
- ⚡️ KEY TAKEAWAYS
- JJ Gabriel went on his first senior Manchester United pre-season trip for Friday’s 5-0 win over Rosenborg
- The 15-year-old was an unused substitute
- Gabriel knows “patience” is required to make it at United
Which Manchester United academy star impressed you the most vs Rosenborg?
Shea Lacey, Jacob Devaney, Harry Amass and Ethan Williams all scored, but there were so many impressive performances!
When do Man Utd play next?
On August 1, United take on Atlético Madrid in the Snapdragon Cup.
That will be Gabriel’s next chance to make his first-team debut.
The game takes place in Stockholm, where United won the Europa League in 2017 after beating Ajax in the final.
Saturday’s game will be held in the same stadium, the Strawberry Arena.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
