Marcus Rashford has given JJ Gabriel important advice on how to reach Manchester United stardom, as the returning forward mentors the 15-year-old prospect. According to a Daily Mail report, Rashford has taken Gabriel under his wing alongside fellow youngster Shea Lacey, with club insiders reportedly noting bosses' amazement at his mature approach.
Mindset Advice Rooted in Experience
Rashford, 28, has been sharing the wisdom he gained from breaking into the first team as a 17-year-old. Back in 2020, he told BT Sport: "It's the mindset that sets you apart, and that's what I try to tell the kids coming through now. You can work hard to get to the first team, but you have to change your mindset to first-team football. If that doesn't change, it's impossible to stay [in the team]. If you do well on the pitch, everything else follows. You have to make a decision."
This mentoring role is not new to Rashford, who was already helping coach United's emerging talents in 2020. His guidance comes as Gabriel, who was too young to make his first-team debut last season, is now eligible as he nears his 16th birthday.
Return to Old Trafford
Rashford returned to United this summer after a loan spell at Barcelona, where the Spanish club declined the option to make the move permanent. His return has drawn praise from manager Michael Carrick, who said at a press conference on Thursday: "It's been pretty obvious since Marcus came back training with Kobbie [Mainoo] and Licha [Lisandro Martinez] pretty much, in Dublin, that he's come back fantastically well. He's enjoying his football, he looks fit, he looks sharp, he looks strong, he looks ready to play football. So, I've been delighted with him since he's come back."
The Daily Mail also reported that Rashford has quickly revived his relationship with Mainoo since returning. Both face uncertain prospects this season, with Mainoo competing in a crowded midfield alongside new signings Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.
Gabriel's Potential Debut
Gabriel could be part of the squad that travels to Hull City on Saturday, as he closes in on his 16th birthday. His potential involvement marks a significant step in his development under Rashford's mentorship.
