“He’s really something”: United forward’s effusive praise about JJ Gabriel will send the fanbase crazy with excitement

Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo has delivered a thrilling verdict on teen prodigy JJ Gabriel after seeing him up close in training. Making waves Among the brightest talents currently emerging from Carrington, none are creating quite as much buzz as Gabriel. He stands in a class of his own. He made his debut for United’s academy last year and became the youngest-ever player to feature for the Under-18s at the age of 14, netting two against Leeds United. Gabriel has been a revelation for United this term. The youngster has scored 20 goals in 22 games for the Under-18s and is in a rich vein of form, finding the back of the net nine times in his last six games. This fantastic run includes braces in the last three Under-18 Premier League matches. Gabriel has trained with the United first team several times and is undoubtedly banging on the door. However, the 15-year-old is ineligible to make his Premier League debut this season due to age restrictions. The earliest he can turn out in the top flight is at the start of the next campaign. Mbeumo spoke to Zack En Roue Libre and gave a glowing assessment of Gabriel. Mbeumo speaks on Gabriel The Cameroonian said [as quoted by the Metro], “He’s strong, the little guy is strong.” “Yeah, he’s strong, he’s really something, frankly. He’s really strong for, I don’t know how old he is, I think he’s 15.” “You feel that he’s bound to be a little kid but he trains quite a bit with us and actually you see, you can feel that the little guy has something special. Of course, and you also see it when he plays already he’s not even with the guys of his generation, and what he does you feel it’s easy for him.” Mbeumo continued, “He’s actually kind of a winger, he’s a dribbler and even in front of the box, I still think he’s good, honestly.” “Even when it’s one-on-one, often when you’re young, one-on-one in front of the goalkeeper, you stutter but I think he already has good blood.” JJ Gabriel in first team training #MUFC [image or embed] — The Peoples Person (@peoplesperson.bsky.social) March 12, 2026 at 10:38 PM “We saw him score some nice goals, he has a good shot. Technically he’s strong.” United are next in action on Sunday when they host Aston Villa at Old Trafford. Featured image by Michael Regan/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!