JJ Gabriel is one the most exciting and promising young talents in Manchester United’s academy but it is up to staff to keep him grounded.
This week, JJ Gabriel was crowned Player of the Year in the U18s Premier League after scoring 20 goals in 21 league appearances.
At the start of the season, JJ Gabriel was just 14 years old, making him the youngest player to ever represent United’s U18s.
There is already talk of Gabriel making a first-team breakthrough when he is eligible next season, but it is important to make sure he stays humble and grounded amid all the excitement.
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JJ Gabriel does not have attitude problems like Alejandro Garnacho
When United last won the FA Youth Cup in 2022, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo were key players in that squad.
Both went on to shine in the first team, although Garnacho was sold to Chelsea last summer after lashing out at Ruben Amorim.
In a recent podcast, Nicky Butt said Garnacho’s attitude was a “disgrace” during his time at United. Since his exit, Garnacho admitted he made mistakes.
Now it is up to United’s academy staff and coaches to make sure other promising talents don’t follow the same pathway.
Thankfully, back in December, there were reports that United are not worried about Gabriel’s ego, and that has now been echoed by Darren Fletcher.
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Darren Fletcher praises JJ Gabriel’s attitude and mentality
Speaking to The Athletic, Fletcher spoke highly of Gabriel and his mentality off the pitch.
“He’s been a pleasure to work with. He’s a fantastic kid,” Fletcher said.
“We have to remember he’s a kid and also, he’s been part of a really good team. JJ has recognised the amount of help he’s had from teammates to get on the ball into those positions to score goals.
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“We’ve got a lot of good players. JJ has scored the goals, and goals always get the limelight.
“He’s bought into — as all the attacking players have — the out-of-possession stuff, the real team ethos. JJ takes constructive criticism fantastically and I’ve got a great relationship with him. He has a major future.”
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