Gabriel in Man Utd team photo but no hint of reconciliation

What the report says

Manchester United forward JJ Gabriel has been included in the club’s official team photo for the season, but BBC Sport says there is still no sign of a repair in his relationship with the club. The teenager, who turns 16 on Tuesday, is understood to have told United he wanted to leave after growing frustration over his role and opportunities. The article says the image was taken before his final appearance for the club and before he informed United of his decision.

BBC Sport reports that United still hold Gabriel’s registration and have tried several times to persuade him to stay. The club is said to view him as a major part of its long-term plans and has provided first-team support, including meetings with senior staff and nutritionists. It also says United would consider legal action if there were evidence of any improper inducement by another club or agent. Several leading European clubs, including Real Madrid and Barcelona, are reported to be monitoring the situation.

The report links the split to Gabriel’s omission from a key squad for United’s UEFA Youth League/European match against Sabah FK and to wider concerns in his camp about his pathway into the first team. BBC Sport adds that he had been fast-tracked into senior training and made a brief first-team debut in a pre-season friendly. He is now training in Spain with coach Jack Hunter, and a final decision on his future is expected in the coming weeks.