Manchester United\'s JJ Gabriel became the youngest player in club history to feature in the FA Youth Cup on Tuesday, scoring the only goal in a victory over Peterborough United at Old Trafford. At 15 years, two months and three days old, Gabriel broke Omari Forson\'s previous record set in December 2019.
Gabriel scored with a precise sidefoot finish from the edge of the box after a sharp turn and cross by Jariyah Shah. The goal came in front of 1,378 spectators and sent United into the fourth round of the competition.
The young forward has scored 10 goals in 11 games for Darren Fletcher\'s under-18s side this season despite playing three years above his age group. He previously scored a hat-trick in a 7-0 victory over Liverpool in November and has made three Under-18 Premier League appearances while still 14 last season.
Gabriel is regarded at United\'s training complex as the best player in the country born in 2010. He has earned comparisons to Phil Foden for the way he takes the ball on the turn, though Gabriel grew up admiring Neymar.
The teenager nearly left United last summer when his family informed the club they planned to move on. Manchester City were among the teams seriously interested, with Europe\'s top sides tracking his development.
United organized an emergency meeting in June after Gabriel returned from holiday. Matt Hargreaves, United\'s director of negotiations, and Jason Wilcox, the director of football, successfully persuaded Gabriel and his father Joe O\'Cearuill to stay by presenting a clearer pathway and renewed care.
Gabriel has trained multiple times with Ruben Amorim\'s first-team squad, holding his own due to his tight control and two-footedness. Captain Bruno Fernandes has been especially welcoming, calling Gabriel by his name and chatting with him.
Playing as a No 10 against Peterborough, Gabriel displayed special balance and ability off either foot. Fletcher has also tried him at No 9 this season to maximize his skill in tight spaces near the box, though he is expected to cement a position at No 10 in coming years.
Gabriel signed with United aged nine after his family moved to Manchester. He previously had spells at Arsenal, Chelsea and West Ham before joining United\'s academy.