Rio Ferdinand has urged Manchester United not to let JJ Gabriel leave, warning that other academy talents could follow him out of the club if he is allowed to depart.
It was reported earlier this month that Gabriel had made a shock request to United to be deregistered, allowing him to leave the club as a free agent. At 15, he is widely considered one of the brightest talents in the country and is highly rated at United. Michael Carrick was reportedly willing to name him in the matchday squad for United’s Carabao Cup match against Brighton earlier this season, but that plan was derailed by his transfer request.
Interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid
Gabriel’s entourage reportedly believe he should have been handed first-team opportunities already, with both Barcelona and Real Madrid among the clubs interested in taking the youngster on. United are reportedly doing all in their power to convince him to stay.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said: "I think we need to understand the reasons why he wants to leave the club. It’s not a 15-year-old making this call on his own, his family may have their reasons why.
"Are they being impatient, are they thinking he should have got minutes already, were they promised stuff and now they’re disgruntled?"
Precedent fears for Carrington academy
Ferdinand pointed out that United’s Carrington academy could stand to lose out on more talent if Gabriel gets his way: "There will be other kids using this as a reference point so you can’t be seen to be weak as a football club. But, I reiterate, I don’t know the full facts and I would love to.
"Manchester United can’t be seen to be bullied by a 15-year-old, no matter how good he is. So whatever the outcome, Manchester United have to remain strong in this."
He also called on Gabriel to be patient as he takes his first steps in professional football: "I remember watching him in training and he was doing shooting drills with Bruno Fernandes. That’s the PFA Player of the Year and one of the best midfielders in the world.
"At 15-years-old that would have been enough for me. But maybe he’s got aspirations and wants to be playing already."
