Rashford labels incredible United youngster “future star”, PL rivals are “desperate” to lure him away from Old Trafford – report

Marcus Rashford has praised Manchester United wonderkid Joseph Junior (JJ) Gabriel following his debut for the Under-18s.

Fresh from their FA Youth Cup semi-final heartbreak, United U18s got back on their feet in style, registering a thumping 13-1 win over Leeds United.

Many young talents made headlines with their remarkable performances, including captain Victor Musa, who scored a first-half double hat-trick.

Gabriel, 14, meanwhile, grabbed the attention on his debut with two goals after coming on as a substitute late in the game. He also made history by becoming the youngest-ever player to play for the club’s Under-18s.

The young sensation, who has been nicknamed “Kid Messi” owing to his eye-catching dribbling ability and style of play, celebrated his debut against Leeds with a post on Instagram.

In the comment section, Rashford joined many in congratulating and hailing the United talent.

The Englishman, who is also the product of the club’s famed academy, wrote “future star” below the post. Gabriel thanked him with an emoji.

There’s plenty of excitement concerning Gabriel’s potential at the club. However, the latest performance is only going to intensify interest from elsewhere.

According to the Daily Mail, United “know they are in a battle to keep him with two key windows, one at 14 and one at 16, important in academy football.”

It is understood that several Premier League clubs are “desperate” to snatch Gabriel from United. The likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid have also been credited with interest in the player.

However, his swift promotion to the Under-18s suggests the Mancunian giants are keen on showing him that they are the best place for his development.

Meanwhile, Rashford, who is away on loan, has enjoyed a positive start at Aston Villa. Still, the academy graduate’s long-term future is not seen at Old Trafford.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images