BREAKING NEWS: “He’s playing exactly like Kylian Mbappé in training” — Joshua Zirkzee names ONE Manchester United academy star who could become untouchable.

Manchester United’s Carrington training complex has witnessed the rise of many generational talents over the decades, but every so often, a name emerges that immediately ignites excitement across the dressing room. This week, that name is JJ Gabriel.

In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Manchester United fanbase, striker Joshua Zirkzee has publicly admitted that while he feels confident competing with Benjamin Šeško for minutes, there is one newly promoted academy player who has left him genuinely stunned — a youngster he believes is already playing like Kylian Mbappé in training.

According to Zirkzee, Gabriel’s rapid promotion to the senior squad was no accident. Instead, it was the result of performances so explosive that coaching staff had no choice but to take notice.

ZIRKZEE’S STATEMENT: “HE’S DIFFERENT”

Speaking to club media after a closed-door training session, Zirkzee offered an unusually honest assessment of the competition within the squad.

“I’m very sure I can compete with Benjamin Šeško,” Zirkzee said. “But there’s one academy player who was just promoted yesterday. He’s playing exactly like Kylian Mbappé. I don’t think there’s anyone who can bench that kind of generational talent if he keeps this up.”

The comment immediately caught attention, not just because of the Mbappé comparison, but because it came from a senior forward who understands the pressure and expectations at a club of United’s magnitude.

Zirkzee went on to explain that Gabriel’s style is defined by explosive acceleration, fearless dribbling, and devastating movement off the ball — qualities that defenders in training have reportedly struggled to cope with.

WHO IS JJ GABRIEL?

JJ Gabriel has long been regarded as one of Manchester United’s most exciting academy prospects, but until now, much of the hype surrounding him remained behind closed doors.

A versatile attacker capable of operating across the front line, Gabriel is known for his directness, confidence in one-on-one situations, and ability to attack space relentlessly. Coaches within the youth system have consistently praised his mentality, describing him as fearless and obsessed with improvement.

What has accelerated his rise, however, is his immediate impact in first-team training.

According to sources close to Carrington, Gabriel has repeatedly beaten senior defenders in drills, scored goals with minimal touches, and shown a level of composure that is rare for a player of his age.

WHY THE MBAPPÉ COMPARISON MATTERS

Comparisons to Kylian Mbappé are not made lightly in elite football. Mbappé’s defining traits — blistering pace, intelligence in transition, and ruthless finishing — are typically associated with players at the very top of the game.

Zirkzee’s comments suggest that Gabriel is already displaying similar attributes in training scenarios:

• Explosive first step that leaves defenders flat-footed
• Clinical finishing when breaking into the box
• High football intelligence, knowing when to run and when to hold position
• Confidence without arrogance, a trait Ruben Amorim values highly

Importantly, insiders insist that Amorim has cautioned against overexposure, determined to manage Gabriel’s development carefully rather than rushing him into the spotlight.

RUBEN AMORIM’S YOUTH PHILOSOPHY

Since taking charge at Manchester United, Ruben Amorim has made it clear that youth development will remain central to the club’s identity. His history of integrating young players and trusting them in high-pressure situations has already earned him respect within the academy.

Gabriel’s promotion fits perfectly into Amorim’s long-term vision.

The Portuguese coach is said to be particularly impressed by Gabriel’s work rate and tactical discipline — qualities that ensure young attackers earn their place through contribution, not just flair.

Amorim has reportedly told staff that Gabriel will feature “when the moment is right,” hinting that his senior debut could arrive sooner than expected.

POTENTIAL DEBUT AGAINST BOURNEMOUTH

Excitement has intensified following reports that JJ Gabriel could be included in the matchday squad for the upcoming clash against Bournemouth.

While a starting role appears unlikely, sources suggest that Amorim is open to introducing the youngster from the bench if the situation allows.

Such a debut would mirror United’s tradition of giving academy graduates their first taste of senior football in controlled environments — moments that often become defining chapters in a player’s career.

REACTION INSIDE THE DRESSING ROOM

Zirkzee is not the only player impressed by Gabriel’s emergence. Senior figures within the squad are said to have taken the youngster under their wing, offering guidance while encouraging him to remain grounded.

One player reportedly described Gabriel as “fearless but respectful,” noting that he listens closely, asks questions, and plays with maturity beyond his years.

This balance between confidence and humility is seen as a major reason why Amorim trusts him so early.

UNITED FANS BEGIN TO DREAM

Manchester United supporters are no strangers to academy sensations, but each new talent reignites hope that the club’s future remains bright.

The Mbappé comparison has inevitably raised expectations, but many fans are urging patience, understanding that true greatness is built over time.

Still, the excitement is undeniable.

If Gabriel translates his training-ground brilliance into competitive action, United may have uncovered another gem capable of shaping the club’s next era.

CONCLUSION

Joshua Zirkzee’s comments have pulled back the curtain on a talent that many outside Carrington had yet to fully appreciate. JJ Gabriel is no longer just an academy prospect — he is now a name being whispered with genuine belief inside Manchester United’s first team.

Whether or not he lives up to the Mbappé comparison remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: under Ruben Amorim, opportunity will follow performance.

And JJ Gabriel, by all accounts, is performing at a level that demands attention.