Mathias de Ligt reveals the ONE Man United academy graduate who impressed in training and is ready to start against West Ham
Manchester United’s academy has long been a factory of elite footballers, consistently producing players who go on to shine both in England and across Europe. Generation after generation, Old Trafford’s youth system keeps delivering talents who break into the senior team and make their mark. Now, a new name is beginning to echo around Carrington — JJ Gabriel.
Matthijs de Ligt has become the latest senior figure to speak openly about the youngster’s incredible rise. The Dutch defender revealed that Gabriel’s recent training session wasn’t just impressive — it was jaw-dropping. According to him, the academy star dribbled past him 15 times in a single session and even fired a hattrick past Lemmen, another rising prospect. For someone with de Ligt’s experience, this wasn’t something to brush aside. It was a warning sign of just how quickly Gabriel is developing.
De Ligt admitted he’d rarely seen such maturity and aggression from someone so young. He described Gabriel as fearless on the ball, technically sharp, and mentally wired for top-level football. Hearing praise like that from a defender known for his strength and tactical awareness shows just how special the youngster might be. Gabriel’s performance in training didn’t just make noise — it sent a message that he’s ready to compete with the senior squad.
United’s upcoming clash with West Ham might be the perfect moment to unleash him. Those close to the team believe Gabriel already ticks all the boxes. His dribbling is electric, his control in tight spaces is far beyond his age, and his quick feet cause trouble for even the most established defenders. Beyond skill, he’s shown bravery and composure — scoring a hattrick in a competitive training match proves he thrives under pressure. Physically, he’s worked hard to match the demands of top-level football, and tactically, he’s soaking up knowledge from Amorim and experienced teammates.
Gabriel isn’t just impressing de Ligt. Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and others in the squad have reportedly taken notice, often reacting with surprise at how consistently he performs during sessions. For a teenager to command that level of attention inside such a competitive environment says everything about the level he’s reaching.
Manchester United fans are already talking. Social media is buzzing with clips, comments, and predictions, with many calling for the youngster to be included in the matchday squad. Supporters believe he could add spark, creativity, and energy to an attack that has sometimes lacked unpredictability this season. A debut against West Ham could be the start of something big.
The biggest question now lies with Ruben Amorim. Should he take the bold step of trusting Gabriel on a Premier League stage, or continue easing him into senior football gradually? Word from inside the camp suggests the coaching staff sees him as ready — or at least close enough to justify giving him a platform.
What’s clear is that United might be looking at their next breakout star. Making a seasoned defender like de Ligt look ordinary in training is no small feat. If Gabriel gets his chance and delivers, he could quickly join the long list of academy players who grew into Old Trafford legends. His rise feels like the beginning of a new spark for the club, one that could shape United’s attack in the months ahead.
