The 2026-27 UEFA Youth League has commenced, and Manchester United sensation JJ Gabriel has begun to turn heads.
The 15-year-old netted thrice as the Red Devils' U-19 team eased past Sabah FK 5-0 in their first game.
Known affectionately around Carrington as 'Kid Messi', Gabriel has announced himself on the continental stage in sensational style.
The teenager's clinical finishing and dribbling wizardry underlined why he is considered one of the brightest prospects in modern football.
JJ Gabriel Makes Manchester United History in Sabah FK trouncing
Manchester United U-19 coach Adam Lawrence put JJ Gabriel in the starting XI for the UEFA Youth League opener against Azerbaijani outfit Sabah FK following his strong start to the Premier League 2 season.
The youngster did not disappoint as he starred in the presence of key decision-makers Jason Wilcox, Christopher Vivell and Travis Binnion.
He opened his account on the stroke of half-time on his debut with a controlled volley from inside the box, having chested down a loose ball. The goal made him the youngest player to score for the Red Devils in the UEFA Youth League at 15 years and 339 days old.
His second goal came in the 85th minute, as he stepped away from a challenge inside the box before side-footing home.
The teenager completed his hat-trick two minutes later as he latched onto a fine ball over the top from Jim Thwaites before slamming home with impressive composure to round off the scoring.
Gabriel became the youngest player to score a hat-trick in the competition, breaking Rayan Cherki's record.
5-0 Statement Win: How United’s U-19s Swept Aside Sabah FK
Manchester United's U-19 team got off to a perfect start on their return to the UEFA Youth League.
From the opening whistle, United controlled the tempo and possession, using sharp vertical passing to break through Sabah FK's mid-block, with 18-year-old Thwaites pulling the strings.
Thwaites provided the assist for Amir Ibragimov's opener after just two minutes of action.
Left-back Jacob Watson added a second for the young Devils in the 16th minute, putting them in total control of the tie.
JJ Gabriel stole the show with his three-goal salvo, ensuring that Sabah were well beaten on the day.
The Rapid Rise of 'Kid Messi': Why Gabriel’s Potential Excites Old Trafford
Having already turned heads across youth football with his flair, dribbling ability, and rapid development through United's age groups, Gabriel's latest milestone validates the immense hype surrounding him.
This summer, he became the youngest player to represent Manchester United when he featured in their pre-season friendly against Atletico Madrid.
Dubbed 'Kid Messi' during his early academy years, the youngster has consistently played above his age group.
His performance in his Youth League debut only lends credence to his standing in the Red Devils' ranks, and his rise could be rewarded with a first-team debut this season.
