JJ Gabriel & Kai Rooney: Exciting U18 update shared after Fletcher was left 'extremely impressed'
Manchester United are placing trust not just in the first team but deep within the academy ranks.
According to the Red Devils insider United Scout, 15-year-old Kai Rooney and 14-year-old JJ Gabriel are set to be included in the Under-18s’ first league game against Everton tomorrow.
They also confirmed that this “hugely significant” step is not a one-off but the duo could be regularly involved at the U18 level.
The Under-18s entered this campaign with a major change in leadership after Adam Lawrence stepped down as head coach at the end of last season.
He enjoyed a successful stint with the Red Devils, leaving a significant void at the academy level.
United filled that gap by handing the reins to decorated club graduate Darren Fletcher.
He is someone who knows the pathway from academy to Old Trafford better than most.
Fletcher has been “extremely impressed” with both Rooney and Gabriel, and is ready to back them against older opposition.
Kai is the son of legendary United footballer Wayne Rooney.
He has some big boots to fill in football but Fletcher will ensure that the starlet plays without that pressure.
Many believe Rooney has exceeded expectations in recent months and is now seen as someone who could be on the same level as Gabriel.
Gabriel is a generational talent and he turned down interest from several top clubs to commit his future to United after a strong push from Jason Wilcox.
Blessed with rare technical ability and dribbling skills, Gabriel could be on the verge of a thrilling season at academy level.
Both youngsters have the potential to become defining players of their generation and United’s hierarchy will be watching their rise with keen interest.
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .