Concerns intensify over fitness of United ace as 15-yo world prodigy drafted into first-team training – report

Concerns over Mason Mount’s fitness have intensified following a new update, even as wonderkid JJ Gabriel trains with the Manchester United first team again. Injury fears mount Mount missed United’s last game, a dramatic 3-2 victory over Fulham, due to an injury. Fitness issues have hindered his United career since his move from Chelsea, but this season he had finally started to put together a consistent run of games and performances. The England international has made 17 Premier League appearances this term, contributing three goals. Speaking after the final whistle vs. Fulham, interim head coach Michael Carrick revealed that Mount had suffered a knock in training. Carrick insisted it was not a serious problem while expressing optimism that Mount would be back very soon. However, it has now emerged that the 27-year-old, alongside Matthijs de Ligt, was missing from training at Carrington on Wednesday. Steven Railston of the Manchester Evening News wrote on X, “Looks like Mount and De Ligt are absent from training. Mount missed the Fulham game after picking up a knock and De Ligt is still recovering from a back injury.” “The Dutchman last played against Crystal Palace on November 30.” Looks like Mount and De Ligt are absent from training. Mount missed the Fulham game after picking up a knock and De Ligt is still recovering from a back injury. The Dutchman last played against Crystal Palace on November 30 #mufc — Steven Railston (@StevenRailston) February 4, 2026 While there are still a few days before this weekend’s match against Tottenham Hotspur, it is slightly concerning that Mount did not train with his teammates. JJ Gabriel development On a brighter note, it has been confirmed that wonderkid JJ Gabriel has completed his second consecutive day of training with the United first team. Since his arrival, Carrick has insisted he will not hesitate to promote youngsters he deems ready. Gabriel, as one of the highest-rated talents in United’s academy, fits that profile perfectly. The 15-year-old took part in first-team training on Tuesday. With the starters from the Fulham match on a recovery day, his presence helped supplement the numbers for the session. He was spotted in training on Wednesday again, strongly suggesting there is a pathway to breaking into the team despite being so young. JJ Gabriel is in #MUFC first-team training again today! [image or embed] — The Peoples Person (@peoplesperson.bsky.social) February 4, 2026 at 2:21 PM United vs. Tottenham kicks off on Saturday at 12:30 pm GMT. Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!