Manchester United have been left confused and shocked by the news that the talented 15-year-old JJ Gabriel has asked to leave the club. According to The Guardian, Gabriel could have become Manchester United's youngest player in the Carabao Cup third-round tie at Old Trafford on Wednesday. However, the Guardian understands Gabriel has asked for his registration to be cancelled.
United are unsure what has prompted JJ Gabriel's decision. They believe they have done everything they can to show Gabriel and his family there is a pathway to the first team. Those efforts have included meetings with Ruben Amorim, when the Portuguese was head coach, and Sir Alex Ferguson. Gabriel, who has been with United since the age of 11, has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects at Carrington in years, scoring a hatful of goals for the youth teams.
Manchester United will now focus on the Carabao Cup tie against Brighton, with Michael Carrick's side looking to bounce back from their defeat by Manchester City.