“Obviously” – Man Utd star confirms his next club ahead of imminent January move
While the news has been in the air for weeks, Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel has named Real Madrid as his next destination.
The 16-year-old is widely considered one of the most exciting young talents in his age group. Last season, he delivered outstanding displays while representing Man Utd’s under-18 side.
Last summer, the young forward was promoted to the under-21s and was promised opportunities with the first team. However, the player and his family weren’t satisfied with the arrangement.
Why JJ Gabriel is leaving Man Utd
In September, Man Utd fans were stunned to learn that Gabriel is no longer training with the team after asking the club to rescind his contract.
The player and his entourage expected more space among the seniors, whereas Michael Carrick and the management kept urging patience.
Some believe the final straw was Gabriel’s omission from the Champions League squad in favour of an injured Manuel Ugarte, which prevented the youngster from featuring in the 4-0 victory over Sabah.
United may have refused to let their most famous teenager leave the club before his youth contract expires at the end of the season, but a loophole in the regulations could force their hand.
It is known that players between the ages of 16 and 18 can leave an English academy to move to another European country if they hold an EU passport. This could apply to Gabriel’s case, as he has an Irish father and a Greek-Cypriot mother.
JJ Gabriel confirms he’s joining Real Madrid
Since Gabriel’s desire to leave went public, several European giants have been vying for his services. In his latest column on CF Bayern Insider, trusted German journalist Christian Falk revealed that Bayern Munich have also been involved in the race.
Nevertheless, he insists that Real Madrid were always ahead of the queue.
On Friday night, Marca posted an article that includes a chat with Gabriel and his father, Joe O’Cearuill.
When the teenager was asked about his preference between Real Madrid and their arch-rivals, Barcelona, his answer confirmed his next destination.
“Obviously, Madrid ,” said the 16-year-old who added that his dream is to win the Ballon d’Or one day.
The article also included an image of Gabriel holding a print edition of the Marca newspaper with him on the front page. The headline adds that his move to Los Blancos is now imminent.
The Spanish source expects his move from Man Utd to be formalised in January.
