Manchester United academy forward JJ Gabriel has made a social media U-turn, reinstating several photographs on Instagram just a fortnight after clearing his entire profile. The 15-year-old remains actively engaged on the platform, having posted a training video to his stories for his approximately 862,000 followers.
Gabriel deleted his Instagram content earlier this month following the surprise decision to ask to leave the club. The teenage prospect had attracted interest from European giants including Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich, and had secured representation from prominent agent Ali Barat.
Two career moments restored
Gabriel has partially reversed his social media purge, reposting two images he had previously shared. Instagram allows users to archive content and republish it to their profile whenever they choose. Users can also retrieve deleted material within 30 days of removal, though the method Gabriel employed remains unclear.
His profile now features two posts, each capturing a pivotal moment in his young career. The initial image documents the occasion when the forward signed a long-term contract with Nike Football, showing him signing the agreement and posing in the brand's studio. The second photograph captures Gabriel holding his U18 Player of the Season Award from 2025/26, beaming beside Alan Shearer with his trophy.
Training away from Carrington
Gabriel also posted a video clip on his story, striking a series of long-range free kicks that thundered over a wall and beyond a goalkeeper with remarkable ease, repeatedly from approximately 25 yards out. Reports suggest he has been undertaking individual training sessions away from Carrington while he considers his future options.
This development comes as Barcelona are understood not to be pursuing Gabriel's signature, though sporting director Deco has remained in touch with Gabriel's father. The situation emerges just months after Gabriel appeared settled in his current environment.
Speaking at the Academy Awards, he said: "I would like to thank God and my family for helping me so far on my football journey." He added: "I would also like to thank my team-mates and coaches who have helped me all season to achieve some of my goals as well," while also sharing his "delight" on working with U18s coach Darren Fletcher.
