
Despite scoring 16 goals for the U18s, the 15-year-old ‘prodigy’ is legally tied to Carrington until 2027.
Manchester United sensation JJ Gabriel is the name on every fan’s lips after another prolific weekend, netting his 15th and 16th goals of the season for the Under-18s against Wolves. However, despite calls from some supporters for the “London-born wizard” to gain senior experience on loan, a temporary exit from Old Trafford is currently impossible.
The 15-year-old, who joined United from the capital in 2022, is legally and strategically bound to Carrington for the foreseeable future.
The Legal Barrier: Why a Loan is Impossible
The primary reason Gabriel cannot be loaned out is his age and contract status.
- Scholarship vs. Professional: Gabriel is currently on a scholarship deal. In the UK, players cannot sign a professional contract until they turn 17.
- Registration Rules: Without a professional contract, a player cannot be registered for a standard loan. Gabriel won’t reach the age of 17 until October 2027.
- Work Experience Limitations: While “Work Experience” loans exist for academy players, they are only available once a player reaches the school-leaving age of 16.
The ‘Carrick Effect’ at Carrington
Beyond the legalities, interim boss Michael Carrick has made it clear that he wants to keep the club’s top talents close. Carrick was in the stands to watch Gabriel score in the 4-1 FA Youth Cup win over Oxford United last week.
Speaking to MUTV, Carrick emphasized the importance of the first-team connection:
“It’s good to get our eyes on some of the younger players… for them to feel that connection. I was really pleased with how they played in tough conditions.”
JJ Gabriel: 2025/26 Season Progress
| Metric | Achievement |
| Goals (U18s) | 16 |
| Debut Age | 14 (Man Utd U18s) |
| Status | Long-term Scholarship Deal |
| Professional Eligibility | October 2027 |
The Strategy for the Future
United’s hierarchy, including Darren Fletcher and Jason Wilcox, reportedly prefer Gabriel to continue his development within the club’s elite environment, training occasionally with the senior squad. By keeping him at Carrington, the club can monitor his physical growth and tactical integration far more effectively than a lower-league loan ever could.
With Gabriel ineligible for first-team selection this season due to age, fans will have to be patient. However, if he continues his current trajectory, the wait until 2027 could see him break directly into the senior picture at Old Trafford, following the path of Kobbie Mainoo.

Filepe Junior is a football writer tracking La Liga transfers, covering major signings, squad planning, and player movements across Spanish clubs.
